Leaders are readers. If you study highly successful leaders in their field, who have sustained excellence over long periods of time – a common denominator in all of their success is that they are readers. From U.S. Presidents to business icons to world-changing innovators and creatives…they are all readers.

I wasn’t a very good reader when I was growing up. I would occasionally read books, but I wasn’t an avid reader at all.

Over 20 years ago, I heard Pat Williams, an author, speaker, and a Senior Vice-President for the NBA Orlando Magic challenged us to read from a book one hour a day. He said if we did that, we’d read about a book a week, and 52 in a year!

Being a competitive person, I decided to accept his challenge, and to say that it changed my life, personally and professionally, would be an understatement. It has become a much-loved habit!

I have an intense growth mindset, and in all my career stops, I’ve had an intense desire to grow, develop, and learn, both personally and professionally, to become the absolute best that I could be. Reading has played a very key pivotal role in that growth and development.

Reading has become so important to me, that as a college basketball coach, my wife and I underwrote a community-wide program in elementary schools that encouraged students to develop a love for reading, and then rewarding those students that read a certain level of books with free admission to our basketball games, t-shirts, etc.

Even today, as a professional speaker, business leader, and author, I continue to read daily, as well as regularly recommending books for others to read, personally and through my social media accounts.

Many times, people have a desire to know what I am reading, and with the growth of this website, they have requested that I provide a listing of the books that I’ve read. Thus, I have created this page on my website called Roy’s Library.

I’ll be adding to the list, and will try to give a brief synopsis of what the book is about. For years past, listed below, I’m simply going to list the book’s title and author. My reading topics are broad, but I’m able to apply everything I read to all aspects of my life.

I hope this is beneficial for you. Read up! Enjoy! Grow, learn, and develop yourself so that you can Grow Greatness in yourself! Remember Leaders are Readers.

2024

Beyond Grit: Ten Powerful Practices To Gain High-Performance by Cindra Kamphoff, PH.D.

In Beyond Grit, Cindra Kamphoff reveals the ten practices that the world's best use to gain a high-performance edge. Kamphoff shares the tools and strategies she's taught executives, entrepreneurs, NFL Pro Bowl athletes, Olympians, college athletes, and championship teams. Based on almost twenty years of research and consulting with the world's best, she provides a practical, inspiring, and easy-to-use guide to radically accelerating your performance and improving your happiness.

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma

         In this fable, Robin Sharma shares an inspiring tale that provides a step-by-step approach to living with greater courage, balance, abundance, and joy

The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

In this fable, Robin Sharma, who has crossed the globe helping people lead lives that inspire the world, shares his original insights and the battle-tested tools he has developed by working with the most successful people on the planet. Based on the key insight that winning starts at the beginning of the day, Sharma shows how you can reduce stress, improve focus, unleash uncommon creativity, achieve exponential productivity, and restore balance.

Agency: The Antidote To A Culture Obsessed With Self by Eric Brown and Taylor Jones

"Agency" is a word often taken for granted. A byline we glance over in an email signature. A word often associated with ego, overwork, and exploitation. But what does agency really mean? What does it mean for us as individuals, for our work, and for our families? Can we reframe the importance of agency in our hearts and imaginations?

Serve To Be Great: Leadership Lessons From A Prison, A Monastery, And A Boardroom by Matt Tenney

Author Matt Tenney has survived – and thrived – in situations where most people would have been quickly broken. In Serve to Be Great, he offers his life experiences and unique insights to help leaders apply the powerful principles of servant leadership. Servant leaders are not weak or timid. Motivated by the aspiration to serve, they achieve true power by empowering others to achieve excellence. This is a practical guide to becoming a leader people want to follow.

Helping People Win At Work by Ken Blanchard and Garry Ridge

Ken Blanchard’s Leading at a Higher Level techniques are inspiring thousands of leaders to build high-performing organizations that make life better for everyone. Now, in Helping People Win at Work, Blanchard and WD-40 Company leader Garry Ridge reveal how WD-40 has used Blanchard’s techniques of Partnering for Performance with every employee--achieving levels of engagement and commitment that have fortified the bottom line.

The GM: The Inside Story Of A Dream Job And The Nightmares That Go With It by Tom Callahan

The GM is a chronicle of the NFL spanning the last three and a half decades, told through the eyes of legendary general manager Ernie Accorsi, a man who has dedicated his life to football—and whose unshakable faith in controversial quarterback Eli Manning was vindicated in the Giants’ dramatic come-from-behind victory in the 2008 Super Bowl. Filled with vivid anecdotes and storytelling that show how the pro game (and the league that showcases it) really works, The GM doesn’t just illuminate, it inspires with its portrait of a consummate football personnel strategist who, over the course of decades, gave everything to the game he loved.

Just Add Water: My Swimming Life by Katie Ledecky

A New York Times bestselling memoir from Olympic gold medalist, world champion, and the most decorated US female Olympian in history: Katie Ledecky. Great lessons to be learned from every element of her life—from the support of her family to the tutelage of her coaches, from her childhood spent in summer league swimming to the bright lights of Olympic pools in London, Rio, and Tokyo—that set her up to become the champion she is.

Black, White And The Grey by Mashama Bailey And John O. Morisano

A story about the trials and triumphs of a Black chef from Queens, New York, and a White media entrepreneur from Staten Island who built a relationship and a restaurant in the Deep South, hoping to bridge biases and get people talking about race, gender, class, and culture. In this dual memoir, Mashama Bailey and John O. Morisano take turns telling how they went from tentative business partners to dear friends while turning a dilapidated formerly segregated Greyhound bus station into The Grey, now one of the most celebrated restaurants in the country. Recounting the trying process of building their restaurant business, they examine their most painful and joyous times, revealing how they came to understand their differences, recognize their biases, and continuously challenge themselves and each other to be better.

It Takes What It Takes by Trevor Moawad with Andy Staples

As the most trusted mental coach in the world of sports, Trevor Moawad has worked with many of the most dominant athletes and the savviest coaches. From Nick Saban and Kirby Smart to Russell Wilson, they all look to Moawad for help finding or keeping or regaining their com­petitive edge. As do countless business leaders and members of special forces. Moawad shares his unique philosophy with the general public. He lays out lessons he's derived from his greatest career successes as well as personal setbacks, the game-changing wisdom he's earned as the go-to whisperer for elite performers on fields of play and among men and women headed to the battlefield.

The River Of Doubt by Candice Millard

This historical novel is an account of Teddy Roosevelt’s harrowing exploration of one of the most dangerous rivers on earth.

Inspire Greatness: How To Motivate Employees With A Simple, Repeatable, Scalable Process by Matt Tenney

Leadership tends to be thought of as an art, not a science. Imagine the benefits of having an algorithm—a repeatable process based on decades of research on what motivates employees—that any leader could follow to consistently inspire greatness in others. Sought-after speaker and consultant Matt Tenney, Inspire Greatness outlines a simple, scalable, four-step process that enables leaders to routinely bring out the best in team members and improve performance.

Culture Is The Way: How Leaders At Every Level Build An Organization For Speed, Impact, And Excellence by Matt Mayberry

Former NFL pro football player, world-renowned keynote speaker, and management consultant Matt Mayberry delivers an incisive and hands-on blueprint to employee engagement and peak productivity.

The Twin Thieves: How Great Leaders Build Great Teams by Steve Jones and Lucas Jadin

A fable about a high school football team, that teaches leaders and organizations how to overcome the twin thieves of the Fear of Failure and the Fear of Judgement.

The Yankee Way by Andy Martino

It's a great book about organizational development and a clear vision for finding the right talent for your organization. With rare access to the inner sanctum of the New York Yankees, SNY analyst Andy Martino weaves two years of exclusive interviews with general manager Brian Cashman into a revelatory account of never-before-told stories about Derek Jeter, Aaron Judge, Alex Rodriguez, the complex front office, team ownership, and insights into the World Series wins and day-to-day running of the team that fans never get to see.

The Book of Joe by Joe Maddon and Tom Verducci

Lessons in baseball enlightenment from three-time MLB Manager of the Year Joe Maddon. No one sees baseball like Joe Maddon. He sees it through his trademark glasses and irrepressible wit. Raised in the “shot and beer” town of Hazleton, PA, and forged by 15 years in the minors, Maddon over 19 seasons in Tampa Bay, Chicago, and Anaheim has become one of the most successful, most colorful, and most quoted managers in Major League Baseball. He is a workplace culture expert, having engineered two of the most stunning turnarounds in the past quarter century: taking the Rays from the worst record in baseball one year to the World Series the next and leading the Cubs to their first World Series title in 108 years.

The Adventures of Herbie Cohen by Rich Cohen

The New York Times bestselling author Rich Cohen tells the story of Herbie: the king of Bensonhurst, the world’s best negotiator—and Cohen’s wise, wisecracking father. Meet Herbie Cohen, the World’s Greatest Negotiator, dealmaker, risk taker, raconteur, adviser to presidents and corporations, hostage and arms negotiator, lesson giver and justice seeker, author of the how-to business classic You Can Negotiate Anything. The Adventures of Herbie Cohen follows our hero from his youth spent running around Brooklyn with his pals Sandy Koufax, Larry King, Who Ha, Inky, and Ben the Worrier (many of them members of his Bensonhurst gang, “the Warriors”); to his days coaching basketball in the army in Europe; to his years as a devoted and unconventional husband, father, and freelance guru crossing the country to give lectures, settle disputes, and hone the art of success while finding meaning in this strange, funny world.

Who Not How: The Formula To Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork by Dan Sullivan with Dr. Benjamin Hardy

The world's foremost entrepreneurial coach shows you how to make a mindset shift that opens the door to explosive growth and limitless possibility - in your business and your life. Have you ever had a new idea or a goal that excites you...but not enough time to execute it? What about a goal you really want to accomplish...but can't because instead of taking action, you procrastinate? Do you feel like the only way things are going to get done is if you do them? But what if it wasn't that way? What if you had a team of people around you that helped you accomplish your goals (while you helped them accomplish theirs)?

Let Them Lead: Unexpected Lessons In Leadership From America’s Worst High School Hockey Team by John U. Bacon

An uplifting leadership book about a coach who helped transform the nation’s worst high school hockey team into one of the best. Bacon’s strategy is straightforward: set high expectations, make them accountable to each other, and inspire them all to lead their team.

Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara

Will Guidara was twenty-six when he took the helm of Eleven Madison Park, a struggling two-star brasserie that had never quite lived up to its majestic room. Eleven years later, EMP was named the best restaurant in the world. How did Guidara pull off this unprecedented transformation? Radical reinvention, a true partnership between the kitchen and the dining room—and memorable, over-the-top, bespoke hospitality.

Wake Up With Purpose: What I’ve Learned in My First Hundred Years by Sister Jean with Seth Davis

Known to millions as simply "Sister Jean," the Loyola Chicago matriarch and college basketball icon invites you into her remarkable memoir filled with history, wonder, and common-sense wisdom for this century and beyond. As Sister Jean wisely says, "I've seen so many changes in the last 102 years, but the important things remain the same." Part life story, part philosophy text, and part spiritual guide, Sister Jean's wit, wisdom, and common sense has broad appeal and application that transcends religious creed, belief, and even feelings on Loyola's basketball team.

Sideline CEO: Leadership Principles From Championship Coaches by Marty Smith

From ESPN’s authentic, popular, and intrepid correspondent Marty Smith—SIDELINE CEO details key leadership principles Marty has learned from championship coaches he’s interviewed over the past two decades. SIDELINE CEO delves into the unique psychology and daily preparation and gameplan execution of some of America’s most respected leaders—the coaches who have led hugely successful programs to win it all. 

The Corner Office: Indispensable and Unexpected Lessons From CEO’s On How To Lead And Succeed by7 Adam Bryant

What does it take to reach the top in business and to inspire others? Adam Bryant of The New York Times decided to answer this and other questions by sitting down with more than seventy CEOs and asking them how they do their jobs and the most important lessons they learned as they rose through the ranks. Over the course of extraordinary interviews, they shared memorable stories and eye-opening insights. The Corner Office draws together lessons from chief executives such as Steve Ballmer (Microsoft), Carol Bartz (Yahoo), Jeffrey Katzenberg (DreamWorks), and Alan Mulally (Ford), from which Bryant has crafted an original work that reveals the keys to success in the business world, including the five essential personality traits that all high performers exhibit—qualities that the CEOs themselves value most and that separate the rising stars from their colleagues. Bryant also demystifies the art of leadership and shows how executives at the top of their game get the most out of others

The Sixth Man by Andre Iguodala with Carvel Wallace

The standout memoir from NBA powerhouse Andre Iguodala, the indomitable sixth man of the Golden State Warriors, that documents his rise to fame in the world of basketball and of business.

The Last Cowboys: A Pioneer Family In The New West by John Branch

The Last Cowboys is Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter John Branch’s epic tale of one American family struggling to hold on to the fading vestiges of the Old West. For generations, the Wrights of southern Utah have raised cattle and world-champion saddle-bronc riders―many call them the most successful rodeo family in history. Now they find themselves fighting to save their land and livelihood as the West is transformed by urbanization, battered by drought, and rearranged by public-land disputes. Could rodeo, of all things, be the answer?

The Emigrant Edge by Brian Buffini

Brian Buffini, an Irish immigrant who went from rags to riches, shares his strategies for anyone who wants to achieve the American dream in this New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller.

Book Yourself Solid by Michael Port

         The fastest, easiest, and most reliable system for getting more clients than you can handle, even if you hate marketing and selling!

The Making of a Miracle by Mike Eruzione with Neal E. Boudette

         The untold story of the captain of the 1980 gold medal-winning U.S. Olympic hockey team.

Directed by James Burrows by James Burrows with Eddy Friedfeld

Five decades of stories from the legendary director of Cheers, Friends, Taxi, Frasier, Will & Grace, and more.

The 4 Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, Jim Huling

The 4 Disciplines of Execution (4DX) is a simple, repeatable, and proven formula for executing your most important strategic priorities in the midst of the whirlwind. By following the 4 Disciplines—Focus on the Wildly Important; Act on Lead Measures; Keep a Compelling Scoreboard; Create a Cadence of Accountability—leaders can produce breakthrough results, even when executing the strategy requires a significant change in behavior from their teams.

Make No Small Plans by Elliott Bisnow, Brett Leve, Jeff Rosenthal, and Jeremy Schwartz

In 2008, with no event production experience and two college degrees between the four of them, Elliott Bisnow, Brett Leve, Jeff Rosenthal, and Jeremy Schwartz became business partners and set out to build a global events company. With passion and tenacity, they began cold calling as many inspiring company founders as they could and tried to convince them to attend their first event. Since then, they have grown Summit into a global community with events all over the world.

In The Blood by Jack Carr

My foray into reading fiction and finding Jack Carr’s “The Terminal List” hooked me! This is the fifth in a series of books centered around his protagonist James Reece.

It’s Not How Good You Are, It’s How Good You Want To Be by Paul Arden

It's Not How Good You Are, It's How Good You Want to Be is a handbook of how to succeed in the world - a pocket 'bible' for the talented and timid to make the unthinkable thinkable and the impossible possible. The world's top advertising guru, Paul Arden, offers up his wisdom on issues as diverse as problem-solving, responding to a brief, communicating, playing your cards right, making mistakes, and creativity, all notions that can be applied to aspects of modern life.

The Devil’s Hand by Jack Carr

My foray into reading fiction and finding Jack Carr’s “The Terminal List” hooked me! This is the fourth in a series of books centered around his protagonist James Reece.

The Third Door by Alex Banayan

The Third Door takes readers on an unprecedented adventure—from hacking Warren Buffett's shareholders meeting to chasing Larry King through a grocery store to celebrating in a nightclub with Lady Gaga—as Alex Banayan travels from icon to icon, decoding their success. After remarkable one-on-one interviews with Bill Gates, Maya Angelou, Steve Wozniak, Jane Goodall, Larry King, Jessica Alba, Pitbull, Tim Ferriss, Quincy Jones, and many more, Alex discovered the one key they have in common: they all took the Third Door.

Ready, Fire, Aim: Zero to $100 Million in No Time Flat by Michael Masterson

Whether you’re thinking about starting a new business or growing an existing one, Ready, Fire, Aim has what you need to succeed in your entrepreneurial endeavors. In it, self-made multimillionaire and bestselling author Masterson shares the knowledge he has gained from creating and expanding numerous businesses and outlines a focused strategy for guiding a small business through the four stages of entrepreneurial growth.

Savage Son by Jack Carr

My foray into reading fiction and finding Jack Carr’s “The Terminal List” hooked me! This is the third in a series of books centered around his protagonist James Reece.

So Good They Can’t Ignore You by Cal Newport

Cal Newport debunks the long-held belief that "follow your passion" is good advice.  Not only is the cliché flawed - preexisting passions are rare and have little to do with how most people end up loving their work - but it can also be dangerous, leading to anxiety and chronic job hopping. After making his case against passion, Newport sets out on a quest to discover the reality of how people end up loving what they do.

The Ruthless Elimination Of Hurry by John Mark Comer

An outstanding and much-needed book in the 21st century! Comer shares his own experiences that led to the recognition that his own life was spinning out of control and the need to stop the hurry and craziness that can bring more peace and less stress. He also doles out some great ideas to apply to the reader’s life.

Quick And Nimble: Lessons From Leading CEOs On How To Create A Culture Of Innovation by Adam Bryant

Adam Bryant draws on interviews with more than two hundred CEOs to offer business leaders the wisdom and guidance to move an organization faster, to be quick and nimble, and to rekindle the whatever-it-takes collective spark of a start-up workplace, all with the goal of innovating and thriving in a relentlessly challenging global economy.

True Believer by Jack Carr

My foray into reading fiction and finding Jack Carr’s “The Terminal List” hooked me! This is the second in a series of books centered around his protagonist James Reece.

Giannis: The Improbable Rise Of An NBA MVP by Mirin Fader

This biography covers the life of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo from a little-known basketball player who took up the game in his native Greece in his teens, to his rapid rise to being drafted into the National Basketball Association, becoming the Greek Freak, and eventually being honored with the Most Valuable Player award and leading his team to an NBA title.

The Terminal List by Jack Carr

My occasional foray into reading fiction led me to former Navy Seal Jack Carr and his thrilling story around his protagonist James Reece. This book has become a Netflix series starring Chris Pratt who plays Reece.

Critical Decision Successful People Make by Kenn Kington

Comedian and speaker Kenn Kington used the opportunities he had to spend time with some of the world’s most successful people and shares the lessons he learned through conversations with them.

Outlive: The Science & Art Of Longevity by Peter Attia, MD

Dr. Peter Attia provides a clear description of our bodies and systems and shows us how we can maximize the quality of life and our own longevity.

Rooted To Rise by Sherri Coale

Former University of Oklahoma women’s basketball coach and Basketball Hall of Famer Sherri Coale shares stories of the people who touched her life, and in doing so, shows an incredible skill as an absolutely wonderful writer! The Inner Game Of Work by W. Timothy Gallwey After reading Gallwey’s original classic book “The Inner Game Of Tennis” I wanted to read this book to draw a better perspective in how this mental guide to peak performance conveyed from tennis and athletics into the corporate work world.

Quick And Nimble: Lessons From Leading CEOs On How To Create A Culture Of Innovation by Adam Bryant

Adam Bryant draws on interviews with more than two hundred CEOs to offer business leaders the wisdom and guidance to move an organization faster, to be quick and nimble, and to rekindle the whatever-it-takes collective spark of a start-up workplace, all with the goal of innovating and thriving in a relentlessly challenging global economy.

True Believer by Jack Carr

My foray into reading fiction and finding Jack Carr’s “The Terminal List” hooked me! This is the second in a series of books centered around his protagonist James Reece.

Giannis: The Improbable Rise Of An NBA MVP by Mirin Fader

This biography covers the life of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo from a little-known basketball player who took up the game in his native Greece in his teens, to his rapid rise to being drafted into the National Basketball Association, becoming the Greek Freak, and eventually being honored with the Most Valuable Player award and leading his team to an NBA title.

The Terminal List by Jack Carr

My occasional foray into reading fiction led me to former Navy Seal Jack Carr and his thrilling story around his protagonist James Reece. This book has become a Netflix series starring Chris Pratt who plays Reece.

Critical Decision Successful People Make by Kenn Kington

Comedian and speaker Kenn Kington used the opportunities he had to spend time with some of the world’s most successful people and shares the lessons he learned through conversations with them.

Outlive: The Science & Art Of Longevity by Peter Attia, MD

            Dr. Peter Attia provides a clear description of our bodies and systems and shows us how we can maximize the quality of life and our own longevity.

Rooted To Rise by Sherri Coale

The former University of Oklahoma women’s basketball coach and Basketball Hall of Famer Sherri Coale shares stories of the people that touched her life, and in doing so, shows an incredible skill as an absolutely wonderful writer!

The Inner Game Of Work by W. Timothy Gallwey

After reading Gallwey’s original classic book “The Inner Game Of Tennis” I wanted to read this book to draw a better perspective in how this mental guide to peak performance conveyed from tennis and athletics into the corporate work world.

2023

The Inner Game Of Tennis: The Classic Guide To The Mental Side Of Peak Performance by W. Timothy Gallwey

This classic book, written almost 50 years ago, delves into the mental keys and roadblocks of peak performance.

Why We Love Baseball: A History in 50 Moments by Joe Posnanski

Posnanski, a New York Times best-selling author, shares his 50 favorite moments from baseball history – along with some bonuses – and we get a behind-the-scenes look at some wow moments in America’s favorite pastime.

Awaken Your Genius: Escape Conformity, Ignite Creativity & Become Extraordinary by Ozan Varol

We say some people march to the beat of a different drummer. But implicit in this cliché is that the rest of us march to the same beat. We sleepwalk through life, find ourselves on well-worn paths that were never ours to walk, and become a silent extra in someone else’s story. Extraordinary people carve their own paths as leaders and creators. They think and act with genuine independence. They stand out from the crowd because they embody their own shape and color.

Pinnacle: Five Principles That Take Your Business To The Top Of The Mountain by Steve Preda & Gregory Cleary

         A five-part formula that will help companies build a custom structure can drastically grow it.

The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More, & Change The Way You Lead Forever by Michael Bungay Stanier

         An interesting book on coaching employees through key questions.

Mentoring 101by John C. Maxwell

         Tremendous book on how mentors can have a larger influence and impact on those they mentor.

Trillion Dollar Coach: The Leadership Playbook of Silicon’s Valley’s Bill; Campbell by Eric Schmidt, Jonathan Rosenberg, & Alan Eagle

One of my favorite all-time books that I try to read every year or two. This is the story of former college football coach Bill Campbell who went on to become the coach for most of the biggest name CEO’s in Silicon Valley including Steve Jobs, Eric Schmidt, and many others which derives the name Trillion Dollar Coach because his mentees’ companies totaled over a trillion dollars in revenue.

Sixty-One: Life Lessons From Papa, On And Off The Court by Chris Paul & Michael Wilbon

When National Basketball Association star Chris Paul’s grandfather was robbed and murdered in Paul’s hometown of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the then high school senior responded by honoring his grandfather by playing in his game the next night and scoring 61 points to match the age of his grandfather. The book reveals the story of his grandfather’s life and all the invaluable lessons about life and business that his “Papa” taught him.

The Making Of A Man: How Men And Boys Honor God And Live With Integrity by Tim Brown & James Lund

Former Heisman Trophy-winning wide receiver and kick returner Tim Brown talks about his own growth as a man, a man of faith, and a man of faith focused on personal integrity.

Across The River: Life, Death, And Football In An American City by Kent Babb

Babb, a renowned writer, embeds himself into the days and lives of a New Orleans high school football team and consequently teaches us what life can be in today’s inner city, and the heroes that save young lives and futures, including the head football coach who continually uses his own life, time and money to protect and save the young men in his program.

Hometown Victory: A Coach’s Story Of Football, Fate, And Coming Home by Keanon Lowe & Justin Spizman

This former University of Oregon great and NFL player shares his life story, and why he walked away to return to his hometown to coach high school football. His decision led to an impact on the lives of his young players, and while serving as a school security guard he stopped a potential mass shooting by a student that had a very unlikely ending that earned national praise and attention.

All-American Murder: The Rise And Fall Of Aaron Hernandez, The Superstar Whose Life Ended On Murderer’s Row by James Patterson

James Patterson jumps into authoring this nonfiction investigative book into the life and professional football career of Aaron Hernandez, and his downward spiral into gang and crime life, which ultimately led to his murder conviction and finally his suicide in prison.

Swagger by Jimmy Johnson

Former college football coach and coach of the Dallas Cowboys’ autobiography covering his early years growing up in Texas, his career development as a college football coach culminating in winning a national championship at the University of Miami, and then leaving college to coach the Dallas Cowboys before walking away to enter a career as a studio analyst with FOX Sports.

Mind and Matter by John Urschel & Louisa Thomas

Former Penn State University and NFL Baltimore Raven’s offensive lineman and his wife pen this biography that not only covers his football career, but also covers his unbelievable ability in mathematics that led to him earning a Master’s degree at Penn State while still playing, teaching classes during his Penn State career, and ultimately his retirement from the NFL, after earning his Doctorate degree and becoming a full math professor at MIT.

Figure It Out by Mike Westhoff

The autobiography of veteran National Football League special teams coach Mike Westhoff covers his evolution into becoming the NFL’s first full-time special teams coach, and how that important aspect of the game has evolved over the decades that he coached.

Wolves Can’t Fly by Dan Meers

This autobiography from Kansas City Chiefs’ long-time mascot “KC Wolf” covers how Meers got into becoming a mascot, what a mascot’s work and life is like, his faith, and how his faith and family helped him recover from a near-death accident in a rehearsal before a Chiefs game.

Swing And A Hit: Nine Innings Of What Baseball Taught Me by Paul O’Neill

Former major leaguer O’Neill pens his autobiography teaching the lessons learned equipping him to excel in his teens, and then follow and achieve his dream of playing major league baseball for the Cincinnati Reds and New York Yankees.

Parenting: Getting IT Right by Andy & Sandra Stanley

A tremendous book that equips parents with the parenting process from infants to adult children. Sage teaching from parents and grandparents themselves.

Foreign To Familiar by Sarah A. Lanier

            This little book teaches important steps in understanding, visiting, and working in different countries and cultures.

Just Show Up by Cal Ripken Jr.

            A behind-the-scenes autobiography by major league baseball’s Iron Man, that teaches the character qualities and values that he learned from playing America’s pastime.

Grateful American by Gary Sinise

One of my favorite books over the past couple of years, this autobiography covers the acting, directing, music, and philanthropic work of a truly great American. Impacted by the lack of recognition and thanks for our armed services, “Sargeant Dan” from the movie “Forrest Gump” has used his fame to raise financial support to provide for wounded soldiers and veterans, as well as families that have lost loved ones in battle.

The Culture Playbook by Daniel Coyle

Coyle who is renowned for his work with corporations and professional sports teams, uses his work and research to teach 60 highly effective actions to help groups and organizations succeed.

Chop Wood Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf

The book’s theme revolves around falling in love with the process of becoming great. Inspiring and clear on this important concept to growing greatness in your life.

Path Lit By Lightning by David Maraniss

A fascinating biography of Jim Thorpe the legendary athlete. From the Native American’s early life with forced relocation by the government, to his high school and professional sports teams’ abusive usage of Thorpe, taking advantage of him and his fame and notoriety.

The House of Wolves by James Patterson & Mike Lupica

I don’t normally read fiction, but as a sports fan this book by esteemed author James Patterson and former sportswriter turned author Mike Lupica combines a suspenseful whodunnit and professional football. A fun read!

26 Marathons: What I Learned About Faith, Identity Ands Running by Meb Keflezighi & Scott Douglas

When Meb Keflezighi—the first person in history to win both the Boston and New York City marathons as well as an Olympic marathon medal—ran his final marathon in New York City on November 5, 2017, it marked the end of an extraordinary distance-running career. Meb's last marathon was also his twenty-sixth, and each of those marathons has come with its own unique challenges, rewards, and outcomes. In 26 Marathons, Meb takes readers on those legendary races, along every hill, bend, and unexpected turn of events that made each marathon an exceptional learning experience, and a fascinating story.

The Secret: What Great Leaders Know And Do by Ken Blanchard & Mark Miller

The authors get at the heart of what makes a leader successful in this classic business fable. Newly promoted but struggling young executive Debbie Brewster asks her mentor, “What is the secret of great leaders?” His reply—“great leaders serve”—flummoxes her, but over time he reveals the five fundamental ways that leaders succeed through service.

Irrational Kindness: The Crazy Pursuit Of An Extraordinary Life by Kevin Williams

The work from Chick-fil-A entrepreneur and rare triple-franchisee Kevin Williams was written as part-employee handbook, ​part-operating manual for life, Irrational Kindness flips traditional wisdom on its head and gives a different lens through which to look at life. Often the idea of being irrational is smeared with negative connotations. It can sound illogical, senseless, unjustifiable, or groundless. It may even represent ludicrous and mad behavior! But Kevin Williams argues that being irrational can be just the opposite. And it is the most positive, inspiring, and empowering way to be. Being irrational has to do with thinking outside the box―way outside. It has to do with viewing life as a journey and still being willing to reverse the route, shake things up, or flip the map upside down. Why? Not just to be different, but to make a difference.

Culture Rules: The Leader’s Guide To Creating The Ultimate Competitive Advantage by Mark Miller

In every organization, people either love their work or loathe it; they contribute or coast. Your culture can be soul enriching or soul crushing. Your culture gives life or takes it. Your employees care deeply or couldn’t care less. Your organization’s culture can become the most valuable intangible asset you steward. You can build a high performance culture—a place where people and the organization win. But cultures like this don’t just happen overnight—leaders are responsible for fostering them. So, what really contributes to a thriving culture? What can a leader do to make a difference? Mark Miller and his team conducted a global study with more than 6,000 participants from ten countries to find the answers to these questions and more. In Culture Rules, leaders will learn the three simple rules that determine the health, vitality, and sustainability of culture, enabling them to build organizations that uncover untapped potential and transform it into performance. Play the game well and you’ll be astonished by what your organization can become. Culture rules!

Fast Girl: A Life Spent Running From Madness by Suzy Favor Hamilton & Sarah Tomlinson

The former middle distance Olympic runner and high-end escort speaks out for the first time about her battle with mental illness, and how mania controlled and compelled her in competition, but also in life. This is a heartbreakingly honest yet hopeful memoir reminiscent of Manic, Electroboy, and An Unquiet Mind.

For Such A Time As This: My Faith Journey Through The White House And Beyond by Kayleigh McEnany

Kayleigh McEnany describes her path to the White House podium, bringing the reader behind the scenes in the world’s most powerful building and illuminating how faith got her through.

The Church Of Baseball: The Making Of Bull Durham by Ron Shelton

Bull Durham, the breakthrough 1988 film about a minor league baseball team, is widely revered as the best sports movie of all time. But back in 1987, Ron Shelton was a first-time director and no one was willing to finance a movie about baseball—especially a story set in the minors. The jury was still out on Kevin Costner’s leading-man potential, while Susan Sarandon was already a has-been. There were doubts. But something miraculous happened, and The Church of Baseball attempts to capture why.

The Phenomenon by Rick Ankiel & Tim Brown

The Phenomenon is the story of how St. Louis Cardinals prodigy Rick Ankiel lost his once-in-a-generation ability to pitch -- not due to an injury or a bolt of lightning, but a mysterious anxiety condition widely known as "the Yips." It came without warning, in the middle of a playoff game, with millions of people watching. And it has never gone away.

Into The Raging Sea by Rachel Slade

On October 1, 2015, Hurricane Joaquin barreled into the Bermuda Triangle and swallowed the container ship El Faro whole, resulting in the worst American shipping disaster in thirty-five years. No one could fathom how a vessel equipped with satellite communications, a sophisticated navigation system, and cutting-edge weather forecasting could suddenly vanish—until now. Relying on hundreds of exclusive interviews with family members and maritime experts, as well as the words of the crew members themselves—whose conversations were captured by the ship’s data recorder—journalist Rachel Slade unravels the mystery of the sinking of El Faro. As she recounts the final twenty-four hours onboard, Slade vividly depicts the officers’ anguish and fear as they struggled to carry out Captain Michael Davidson’s increasingly bizarre commands, which, they knew, would steer them straight into the eye of the storm. Taking a hard look at America's aging merchant marine fleet, Slade also reveals the truth about modern shipping—a cut-throat industry plagued by razor-thin profits and ever more violent hurricanes fueled by global warming.

Grant And Twain: The Story Of An American Friendship by Mark Perry

In the spring of 1884 Ulysses S. Grant heeded the advice of Mark Twain and finally agreed to write his memoirs. Little did Grant or Twain realize that this seemingly straightforward decision would profoundly alter not only both their lives but the course of American literature. Over the next fifteen months, as the two men became close friends and intimate collaborators, Grant raced against the spread of cancer to compose a triumphant account of his life and times—while Twain struggled to complete and publish his greatest novel, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.In this deeply moving and meticulously researched book, veteran writer Mark Perry reconstructs the heady months when Grant and Twain inspired and cajoled each other to create two quintessentially American masterpieces.

American Entrepreneur by Willie Robertson & William Doyle

The history of the United States is, to a remarkable degree, the story of its entrepreneurs, those daring movers and shakers who dreamed big and risked everything to build better lives for themselves and their fellow Americans. Drawing on his own family's remarkable journey, Duck Commander CEO and star of the blockbuster Duck Dynasty series Willie Robertson tells the captivating true tale of the visionaries and doers who have embodied the American dream.

Happy At Any Cost by Kirsten Grind & Katherine Sayre

From award-winning Wall Street Journal reporters, “a startling portrait of one of our greatest tech visionaries, Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh” (Robert Kolker, author of Hidden Valley Road), reporting on his short life, untimely death, and what that means for our pursuit of happiness.

What It Takes: Lessons In Pursuit Of Excellence by Stephan A. Schwarzman

From Blackstone chairman, CEO, and co-founder Stephen A. Schwarzman, a long-awaited book that uses impactful episodes from Schwarzman's life to show readers how to build, transform, and lead thriving organizations. Whether you are a student, entrepreneur, philanthropist, executive, or simply someone looking for ways to maximize your potential, the same lessons apply.

Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

How you use your free time will make or break your success. The secret? It’s not about working harder or finding more time to do work. It’s about designing the freedom to engage in the high-value work that brings you energy and fulfillment. This is at the heart of the message that has made Dan Martell the world’s most popular SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) coach. Now, in his first book, Buy Back Your Time, he teaches entrepreneurs at every level how to scale their business, fast, while avoiding burnout. Trading money for time—that is, literally buying back free space in your calendar—will give you more financial success than you ever dreamed was possible.

Relentless: From Good To Great To Unstoppable by Tim S. Grover

For more than two decades, legendary trainer Tim Grover has taken the greats—Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Dwyane Wade, and hundreds of relentless competitors in sports, business, and every walk of life—and made them greater. Now, for the first time ever, he reveals what it takes to achieve total mental and physical dominance, showing you how to be relentless and achieve whatever you desire.

The Likeability Factor by Tim Sanders

The choices other people make about you determine your health, wealth, and happiness. And decades of research prove that people choose who they like. They vote for them, buy from them, marry them, and spend precious time with them. The good news is that you can arm yourself for the contest and win life’s battles for preference. How? By raising your likeability factor.

Love Is The Killer App by Tim Sanders

Are you wondering what the next killer app will be? Do you want to know how you can maintain and add to your value during these rapidly changing times? Are you wondering how the word love can even be used in the context of business? Instead of wondering, read this book and find out how to become a lovecat—a nice, smart person who succeeds in business and in life.

Let Them Lead by John U. Bacon

An uplifting leadership book about a coach who helped transform the nation’s worst high school hockey team into one of the best. Bacon’s strategy is straightforward: set high expectations, make them accountable to each other, and inspire them all to lead their team.

Bounce by Matthew Syed Mozart, Federer, Picasso, Beckham and the Science of Success

The Last Arrow by Erwin Raphael McManus

The Last Arrow is your roadmap to a life that defies odds and alters destinies. Discover the attributes of those who break the gravitational pull of mediocrity as cultural pioneer and thought leader Erwin McManus examines the characteristics of individuals who risked everything for a life they could only imagine. Imagine living the life you were convinced was only a dream. 

Game: An Autobiography by Grant Hill

The full, frank story of a remarkable life’s journey—to the pinnacle of success as a basketball player, icon, and entrepreneur, to the depths of personal trauma and back, to a place of flourishing and peace—made possible above all by a family’s love

Profit From Your Podcast by Dave Jackson

Profit from Your Podcast provides top strategies and real-life examples of podcast monetization.

Murder In Matera by Helene Stapinski

A writer goes deep into the heart of Italy to unravel a century-old family mystery in this spellbinding memoir that blends the suspenseful twists of Making a Murderer and the emotional insight of Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels.

Lacrosse For Dummies by Jim Hinkson

Lacrosse For Dummies is for anyone interested in lacrosse, from the “peanut” player (four or five years old) to the old-timer, from the new fan to the fanatic, from the beginning coach to the experienced coach, from the parent who’s a novice to the parent who has been through the “wars” of lacrosse. Whatever your association to the sport, this book is an interesting and exciting read.

What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith

         How successful people become even more successful

Pass It Lacrosse by Bobbie Kalman

Presents the history and tradition of lacrosse, covering the sport's biggest names, famous records, and rules.

Total Lacrosse by Paul D. Bowker

Presents the history and tradition of lacrosse, covering the sport's biggest names, famous records, and rules.

Chasing Daylight by Erwin Raphael McManus

Chasing Daylight (previously published as Seizing Your Devine Moment) is a call to live a life of blazing urgency. We have but one life. We are given one opportunity to pursue our dreams and fulfill our divine purpose. Every moment counts, and we must engage them with fierceness and zeal. Put an end to passive observation, paralyzed by the need for perfect opportunity, and start seizing the raw, untapped potential of your life with God.

In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day by Mark Batterson

You will look back longingly on risks not taken, opportunities not seized, and dreams not pursued. Stop running away from what scares you most and start chasing the God-ordained opportunities that cross your path. In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day is inspired by one of the most obscure yet courageous acts recorded in Scripture, a blessed and audacious act that left no regrets: “Benaiah chased a lion down into a pit. Then, despite the snow and slippery ground, he caught the lion and killed it” (2 Samuel 23:20 -21).

The Second Mountain by David Brooks

In The Second Mountain, David Brooks explores the four commitments that define a life of meaning and purpose: to a spouse and family, to a vocation, to a philosophy or faith, and to a community. Our personal fulfillment depends on how well we choose and execute these commitments. Brooks looks at a range of people who have lived joyous, committed lives, and who have embraced the necessity and beauty of dependence. He gathers their wisdom on how to choose a partner, how to pick a vocation, how to live out a philosophy, and how we can begin to integrate our commitments into one overriding purpose.

2022

Geronimo: Leadership Strategies Of An American Warrior by Mike Leach and Buddy Levy

Playing cowboys and Indians as a boy, legendary college football coach Mike Leach always chose to be the Indian—the underdog whose success turned on being a tough, resourceful, ingenious fighter. And the greatest Indian military leader of all was Geronimo, the Apache warrior whose name is so symbolic of courage that World War II paratroopers shouted it as they leaped from airplanes into battle. Told in the style of Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws of Power, Leach’s compelling and inspiring book examines Geronimo’s leadership approach and the timeless strategies, decisions, and personal qualities that made him a success.

The Last Folk Hero: The Life And Myth Of Bo Jackson by Jeff Pearlman

From the mid-1980s into the early 1990s, the greatest athlete of all time streaked across American sports and popular culture. Stadiums struggled to contain him. Clocks failed to capture his speed. His strength was legendary. His power unmatched. Video game makers turned him into an invincible character—and they were dead-on. He climbed (and walked across) walls, splintered baseball bats over his knee, turned oncoming tacklers into ground meat. He became the first person to simultaneously star in two major professional sports, and overtook Michael Jordan as America’s most recognizable pitchman. He was on our televisions, in our magazines, plastered across billboards. He was half man, half myth. Then, almost overnight, he was gone. He was Bo Jackson.

Intentional Mindset by Dave Anderson

Some people seem to be born with a mental makeup that predestines them for success. But anyone can master their mindset. Dave Anderson shows you how. In Intentional Mindset, LearnToLead founder Dave Anderson shows you how to purposefully develop both killer instinct and mental toughness by cultivating and strengthening ten specific traits. 

Long Walk To Freedom: The Autobiography Of Nelson Mandela by Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was one of the great moral and political leaders of his time: an international hero whose lifelong dedication to the fight against racial oppression in South Africa won him the Nobel Peace Prize and the presidency of his country. After his triumphant release in 1990 from more than a quarter-century of imprisonment, Mandela was at the center of the most compelling and inspiring political drama in the world. As president of the African National Congress and head of South Africa's antiapartheid movement, he was instrumental in moving the nation toward multiracial government and majority rule. He is still revered everywhere as a vital force in the fight for human rights and racial equality.

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Rich Dad Poor Dad is Robert's story of growing up with two dads — his real father and the father of his best friend, his rich dad — and the ways in which both men shaped his thoughts about money and investing. The book explodes the myth that you need to earn a high income to be rich and explains the difference between working for money and having your money work for you.

End Zone: The Rise, Fall, And Return Of Michigan Football by John U. Bacon

The New York Times bestseller Endzone tells the story of how one of college football's most successful, richest and respected programs, the University of Michigan, almost lost it all in less than a decade--and entirely of its own doing.It is a story of hubris, greed, and betrayal--a tale more suited to Wall Street than the world's top public university. Author John U. Bacon takes you inside the offices, the board rooms and the locker rooms of the University of Michigan to see what happened, and why--with countless eye-opening, head-shaking scenes of conflict and conquest.

Great At Work: How Top Performers Do Less, Work Better, Achieve More by Morten T. Hansen, PhD

Why do some people perform better at work than others? This deceptively simple question continues to confound professionals in all sectors of the workforce. Now, after a unique, five-year study of more than 5,000 managers and employees, Morten Hansen reveals the answers in his “Seven Work Smarter Practices” that can be applied by anyone looking to maximize their time and performance.

Coach K: The Rise And Reign Of Mike Krzyzewski by Ian O’Connor

Mike Krzyzewski, known worldwide as “Coach K,” is a five-time national champion at Duke, the NCAA’s all-time leader in victories with nearly 1,200, and the first man to lead Team USA to three Olympic basketball gold medals. Through unprecedented access to Krzyzewski’s best friends, closest advisers, fiercest adversaries, and generations of his players and assistants, three-time New York Times bestselling author Ian O’Connor takes you behind the Blue Devil curtain with a penetrating examination of the great but flawed leader as he closes out his iconic career.

The Extraordinary Coach: How The Best Leaders Help Others Grow by John H. Zenger & Kathleen Stinnett

Imagine your workplace filled with curious, creative, committed employees. People who take initiative, who are fearless decision makers, who “own” their work. With the right coaching system in place, this dream will soon become reality. With The Extraordinary Coach, leadership guru Jack Zenger and coaching expert Kathleen Stinnett deliver an entire toolbox for coaching your organization to success. While other such books simply tell you how to coach, The Extraordinary Coach uses companion videos (at www.zengerfolkman.com), worksheets, checklists, sample questions, and the latest research findings to provide a full immersion course on becoming the kind of coach who brings dramatic changes to an organization.

Golf’s Most Fascinating Rivalry – Tiger & Phil by Bob Harig

Bob Harig's Tiger & Phil provides an in-depth chronicle of the decades-long rivalry that drove the success of golf's two biggest stars, Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. For more than two decades, there have been two golfers who have captivated, bemused, inspired, frustrated, fascinated, and entertained us, and in doing so have demanded our attention – Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson. Even with all the ink that has been spilled on Tiger, no one has ever written about his relationship with Phil and how their careers have been inextricably intertwined. Furthermore, very little has been written about Phil Mickelson, who is more than just an adversary. He is a fascinating Hall of Fame golfer in his own right.

The Apprentice: My Life In The Kitchen by Jacques Pepin

In this captivating memoir, the man whom Julia Child has called “the best chef in America” tells the story of his rise from a frightened apprentice in an exacting Old World kitchen to an Emmy Award–winning superstar who taught millions of Americans how to cook and shaped the nation’s tastes in the bargain.

Discover Your True North: Becoming An Authentic Leader by Bill George

Being a leader is about much more than title and management skills—it's fundamentally a question of who we are as human beings. Discover Your True North offers a concrete and comprehensive program for becoming an authentic leader, and shows how to chart your path to leadership success. Once you discover the purpose of your leadership, you'll find the true leader inside you. This book shows you how to use your natural leadership abilities to inspire and empower others to excellence in today's complex global world.

The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel

Timeless lessons on wealth, greed and happiness. Doing well with money isn’t necessarily about what you know. It’s about how you behave. And behavior is hard to teach, even to really smart people. Money―investing, personal finance, and business decisions―is typically taught as a math-based field, where data and formulas tell us exactly what to do. But in the real world people don’t make financial decisions on a spreadsheet. They make them at the dinner table, or in a meeting room, where personal history, your own unique view of the world, ego, pride, marketing, and odd incentives are scrambled together. Award-winning author Morgan Housel shares 19 short stories exploring the strange ways people think about money and teaches you how to make better sense of one of life’s most important topics.

Phil: The Rip-Roaring And Unauthorized Biography Of Golf’s Most Colorful Superstar by Alan Shipnuck

In this raw, uncensored, and unauthorized biography, Alan Shipnuck captures a singular life defined by thrilling victories, crushing defeats, and countless controversies. Mickelson is a multifaceted character, and all his warring impulses are on display in these pages.

Who Moved My Cheese? By Spencer Johnson, M.D.

Cheese is a metaphor for what you want in life - be it a good job, a loving relationship, money or possessions, health or spiritual peace of mind. And the maze is where you look for what you want - the organization you work in, or the family or community where you live. This book shows how to anticipate change, adapt quickly, enjoy the change and be ready for more, so that you suffer from less stress and enjoy more success in life.

Wait Till Next Year by Doris Kearns Goodwin

Set in the suburbs of New York in the 1950s, Wait Till Next Year re-creates the postwar era, when the corner store was a place to share stories and neighborhoods were equally divided between Dodger, Giant, and Yankee fans. We meet the people who most influenced Goodwin’s early life: her mother, who taught her the joy of books but whose debilitating illness left her housebound: and her father, who taught her the joy of baseball and to root for the Dodgers of Jackie Robinson, Roy Campanella, Pee Wee Reese, Duke Snider, and Gil Hodges. Most important, Goodwin describes with eloquence how the Dodgers’ leaving Brooklyn in 1957, and the death of her mother soon after, marked both the end of an era and, for her, the end of childhood.

Blue Ocean Strategy: How To Create Uncontested Market Space And Make

The Competition Irrelevant by W. Chan Kim & Renee Mauborgne

In this perennial bestseller, embraced by organizations and industries worldwide, globally preeminent management thinkers W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne challenge everything you thought you knew about the requirements for strategic success. Recognized as one of the most iconic and impactful strategy books ever written, argues that cutthroat competition results in nothing but a bloody red ocean of rivals fighting over a shrinking profit pool. Based on a study of 150 strategic moves (spanning more than 100 years across 30 industries), the authors argue that lasting success comes not from battling competitors but from creating "blue oceans"--untapped new market spaces ripe for growth.

Moneyland: The Inside Story Of The Crooks And Kleptocrats Who Rule The World by Oliver Bullough

"The most eye-opening book that you'll read all year... A must read for anyone who wants to understand how the real world of wealth works." ―Inc.  From ruined towns on the edge of Siberia, to Bond-villain lairs in London and Manhattan, something has gone wrong. Kleptocracies, governments run by corrupt leaders that prosper at the expense of their people, are on the rise. Join the investigative journalist Oliver Bullough on a journey into Moneyland―the secret country of the lawless, stateless superrich.

To The Land Of The Free From This Island Of Slaves – Henry Stratford Persee’s Letters From Galway To America 1821-1832

Henry Persee’s letters from Ireland in the midst of the Potato Famine to his young sons that he sent to America to make a better life for themselves. These personal letters seek information on the new land while reflecting on the horrible famine and struggle of the Irish.

What Would The Rockefellers Do? How The Wealthy Get And Stay That Way And How You Can Too by Garret B. Gunderson

         Financial Strategies and Lessons from one of America’s wealthiest and most philanthropic families, that you can apply to your own life and finances.

Generations At Work: Managing The Clash Of Boomers, Gen Xers, And Gen Yers In The Workplace by Ron Zemke, Claire Raines, Bob Filipczak

Written for those struggling to manage a workforce with incompatible ethics, values, and working styles, this book looks at the root causes of professional conflict and offers practical guidelines for navigating multigenerational differences. By exploring the most common causes of conflict--including the Me Generation’s frustration with Gen Yers’ constant desire for feedback and the challenges facing Gen Xers sandwiched between these polarities--Generations at Work offers practical, spot-on guidance for managing the differences with consideration to each generation’s unique needs.

The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb

Ray McMillian is a Black classical musician on the rise—undeterred by the pressure and prejudice of the classical music world—when a shocking theft sends him on a desperate quest to recover his great-great-grandfather’s heirloom violin on the eve of the most prestigious musical competition in the world.

Thinking In Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don’t Know All The Facts by Annie Duke

Annie Duke, a former World Series of Poker champion turned consultant, draws on examples from business, sports, politics, and (of course) poker to share tools anyone can use to embrace uncertainty and make better decisions.

Walk In The Woods: Rediscovering America On The Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson

The Appalachian Trail trail stretches from Georgia to Maine and covers some of the most breathtaking terrain in America–majestic mountains, silent forests, sparking lakes. If you’re going to take a hike, it’s probably the place to go. And Bill Bryson is surely the most entertaining guide you’ll find. He introduces us to the history and ecology of the trail and to some of the other hardy (or just foolhardy) folks he meets along the way–and a couple of bears

The Moviegoer by Walker Percy

Winner of the 1962 National Book Award and one of Time magazine’s 100 Best English-Language Novels, Walker Percy’s debut The Moviegoer is an American masterpiece and a classic of Southern literature. Insightful, romantic, and humorous, it is the story of a young man’s search for meaning amid a shallow consumerist landscape.

The SOUL Of A Team: A Modern-Day Fable For Winning Teamwork by Tony Dungy With Nathan Whitaker

For most people, succeeding in life requires mastering the art of teamwork. Whether at work, school, church, or home, virtually everyone is part of a team―and when they work well, teams can accomplish more than individuals working by themselves. But not all teams are created equal. When a team isn’t functioning well, individual strengths can be undermined and weaknesses accentuated, making the work environment a terrible place to be. So what does a truly effective team environment look like, and how can you create one within your own organization?

Unstoppable: Transforming Your Mindset To Create Change, Accelerate Results And Be The Best At What You Do by Dave Anderson

Unstoppable is performance-enhancing manual for those who are ready to change the world. Regardless of talent or skill set, there are four types of people in every organization: Undertakers, Caretakers, Play Makers, and Game Changers—but value is definitely not equal across the board.

The Family: A Novel by Naomi Krupitsky

A captivating debut novel about the tangled fates of two best friends and daughters of the Italian mafia, and a coming-of-age story of twentieth-century Brooklyn itself.

10 Leadership Virtues for Disruptive Times by Tom Ziglar

With the world changing so rapidly, many leaders are struggling to find new ways to make a significant and positive impact on their team. The key, says Tom Ziglar, is to consistently bring out the best in everyone by focusing on ten core virtues: kindness, humility, respect, persistence, selflessness, encouragement, positive expectations, self-control, firmness, and hope.

Father God: Daring To Draw Near by Dave Patty

God uses many words to describe himself, but one is stunningly personal—Father.

This is thrilling… and problematic. You don’t have another Jesus, or another Holy Spirit, but you do have another father, and your experience with him changes the way you see God.

Because of this, unknowingly, you may be “Father deficient” - lacking key resources God is offering, but you are still missing. With keen Biblical insight and inspiring stories Dave Patty shows you how to evaluate four key areas of your heart, and then unpacks the practical steps to deep transformation with Father resources from God.

Setting The Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business by Danny Meyer

The bestselling business book from award-winning restauranteur Danny Meyer, of Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, and Shake Shack. Seventy-five percent of all new restaurant ventures fail, and of those that do stick around, only a few become icons. Danny Meyer started Union Square Cafe when he was 27, with a good idea and hopeful investors. He is now the co-owner of a restaurant empire. How did he do it? How did he beat the odds in one of the toughest trades around? Danny shares the lessons he learned developing the dynamic philosophy he calls Enlightened Hospitality.

All About Me: My Remarkable Life In Show Business by Mel Brooks

For anyone who loves American comedy, the long wait is over. Here are the never-before-told, behind-the-scenes anecdotes and remembrances from a master storyteller, filmmaker, and creator of all things funny.

The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni

In The Ideal Team Player, Lencioni tells the story of Jeff Shanley, a leader desperate to save his uncle’s company by restoring its cultural commitment to teamwork. Jeff must crack the code on the virtues that real team players possess, and then build a culture of hiring and development around those virtues. Beyond the fable, Lencioni presents a practical framework and actionable tools for identifying, hiring, and developing ideal team players.  Whether you’re a leader trying to create a culture around teamwork, a staffing professional looking to hire real team players, or a team player wanting to improve yourself, this book will prove to be as useful as it is compelling.

Disciplined Dreaming: A Proven Way To Drive Breakthrough Creativity by Josh Linkner

A 5-part process that will transform your organization — or your career — into a non-stop creativity juggernaut. We live in an era when business cycles are measured in months, not years. The only way to sustain long-term innovation and growth is through creativity-at all levels of an organization. Disciplined Dreaming shows you how to create profitable new ideas, empower all your employees to be creative, and sustain your competitive advantage over the long term. Linkner distills his years of experience in business and jazz — as well as hundreds of interviews with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and artists — into a 5-step process that will make creativity easy for you and your organization.

Change The Culture, Change The Game: The Breakthrough Strategy For Energizing Your Organization and Creating Accountability For Results by Roger Connors & Tom Smith

Two-time New York Times bestselling authors Roger Connors and Tom Smith show how leaders can achieve record-breaking results by quickly and effectively shaping their organizational culture to capitalize on their greatest asset-their people. Change the Culture, Change the Game joins their classic book, The Oz Principle, and their recent bestseller, How Did That Happen?, to complete the most comprehensive series ever written on workplace accountability.

Jesus > Religion: Why It Is So Much Better Than Trying Harder, Doing More, And Being Enough by Jefferson Bethke

Jefferson Bethke burst into the cultural conversation with a passionate, provocative poem titled "Why I Hate Religion, But Love Jesus." The 4-minute video became an overnight sensation, with 7 million YouTube views in its first 48 hours (and 23+ million in a year).

Bethke's message clearly struck a chord with believers and nonbelievers alike, triggering an avalanche of responses running the gamut from encouraged to enraged. In his New York Times bestseller, Bethke unpacks similar contrasts that he drew in the poem--highlighting the difference between teeth gritting and grace, law and love, performance and peace, despair, and hope. With refreshing candor, he delves into the motivation behind his message, beginning with the unvarnished tale of his own plunge from the pinnacle of a works-based, fake-smile existence that sapped his strength and led him down a path of destructive behavior.

7 Secrets To Investing Like Warren Buffett by Mary Buffett & Sean Seah

A clear, simple, and complete guide for beginning investors from bestselling author Mary Buffett and Sean Seah that explains Warren Buffett’s techniques of Value Investing and his proven strategies to ensure long-term success.

You Were Made For This Moment: Courage For Today And Hope For Tomorrow by Max Lucado

Are you weary? Worn out by the bills that keep stacking, a virus that keeps raging, or a heart that keeps aching? If so, the book of Esther brings welcome news: Relief will come. To be clear, you didn't ask for this struggle. You want to get past it. You don't know how much longer you can hold up. But what if God is with you in this difficult season? When life seems off the rails, remember this truth: the minute you bow your head to pray is the moment God lifts his hand to help. Queen Esther learned this truth firsthand.

The Boys by Ron Howard & Clint Howard

Happy Days, The Andy Griffith Show, Gentle Ben—these shows captivated millions of TV viewers in the ’60s and ’70s. Join award-winning filmmaker Ron Howard and audience-favorite actor Clint Howard as they frankly and fondly share their unusual family story of navigating and surviving life as sibling child actors.

The Second Most Powerful Man In The World by Phillips Payson O’Brien

Aside from FDR, no American did more to shape World War II than Admiral William D. Leahy--not Douglas MacArthur, not Dwight Eisenhower, and not even the legendary George Marshall. No man, including Harry Hopkins, was closer to Roosevelt, nor had earned his blind faith, like Leahy. Through the course of the war, constantly at the president's side and advising him on daily decisions, Leahy became the second most powerful man in the world.

Travels With George: In Search of Washington and His Legacy by Nathaniel Philbrick

Does George Washington still matter? Bestselling author Nathaniel Philbrick argues for Washington’s unique contribution to the forging of America by retracing his journey as a new president through all thirteen former colonies, which were now an unsure nation. Travels with George marks a new first-person voice for Philbrick, weaving history and personal reflection into a single narrative.

The Artist’s Way Every Day: A Year of Creative Living by Julia Cameron

With 365 quotations culled from Julia Cameron’s most vital works on the creative process, this elegant little book can easily be carried along as the reader travels her groundbreaking spiritual path to higher creativity.

The Power To Bless: How To Speak Life and Empower the People You Love by Alan Wright

Blessed people flourish by a power that transcends human talent or hard work--a mystical grace empowers them to be joyful and fruitful. But does it ever feel like others are blessed while you're stuck? With honesty and warmth, Alan Wright shares his inspiring journey from craving blessing to living the blessed life. 

The Master: The Long Run And Beautiful Game Of Roger Federer by Christopher Clarey

            Clarey, a veteran tennis writer shares the story of Roger Federer, a young teenager of Swiss and South African descent that would choose tennis over soccer as his sport of choice and become the all-time winningest tennis champion.

Becoming Trader Joe by Joe Coulombe

            Some cities in America are fortunate to have a Trader Joe’s store in them, but the late founder who died shortly after finishing the book tells the tales of starting with California convenience stores and growing them into a nationally known and coveted brand, while sharing great business and leadership lessons.

Taste – My Life Though Food by Stanley Tucci

            Actor Stanley Tucci traces his life growing up in New York and Italy through food’s influence.

Pappyland by Wright Thompson

            What makes Pappy Van Winkle bourbon so valuable across the globe? How did the bourbon brand come into existence and why did it almost die without anyone noticing, only to explode onto the scene worldwide? Thompson tells the story through his time with Julian Van Winkle the grandson of the founder of the famous Kentucky bourbon.

Out Of The Pocket By Kirk Herbstreit

            Autobiography of ESPN’s football announcer covering his youth, high school football stardom, struggles and success at Ohio State, and the path to television stardom as a key part of ESPN’s College Gameday.

Unrequited Infatuations by Stevie Van Zandt

            This autobiography shares stories from Van Zandt’s five decades as a musician, songwriter, music producer, actor, and television producer including his lifelong friendship with Bruce Springsteen and his time as a guitarist in the E Street Band.

The Cost Of These Dreams by Wright Thompson

            A wonderful compilation of sports stories from one of the country’s great storytellers and writers.

Do The KIND Thing by Daniel Lubetzky

            The founder of KIND bars and food products shares his personal story of using business to create peace in rival countries and how the result of his business development grew into a Billion dollar company while impacting countries and consumers alike.

All In: How The Best Managers Create A Culture Of Belief And Drive Big Results by Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton

            I love the work of these two authors that do a wonderful job teaching leadership and culture and the influence and impact that excellence in leadership has on those that follow them. Also read their works The Carrot Principle and The Orange Revolution.

2021

ReFOUNDER: How Transformational Leaders Take What’s Broken And Make It Better by Patrick Colletti

            Phenomenal business leadership book from an ultra-successful start-up founder that will revolutionize business leaders and businesses alike.

The Greatest Salesman In The World by Og Mandino

            This all-time classic business and sales book teaches the golden ten lessons that all those in  sales and business can follow for unprecedented success!

This Life I Live by Rory Feek

            Rory Feek and his wife Joey were country performers and songwriters that took the world by storm through their television show…and then Joey was diagnosed with cancer. This book is autobiographical in Rory tracing his life story but also a poignant telling of meeting and marrying Joey, their life together, her fight with cancer, and Rory’s life after Joey’s death.

Cracking The Code: The Winning Ryder Cup Strategy – Make It Work For You by Paul Azinger and Dr. Ron Braund

         Azinger uses his captaincy of the United States Ryder Cup team to teach invaluable business lessons – from recruiting the right talent, creating working teams that are highly effective, to leadership in a roiling competitiuve environment.

The Hollywood Commandments by Devon Franklin

            Franklin is more than an author, he is a highly accomplished movie executive in Hollywood and well-known speaker as well as a man of faith, and in this book he provides his spiritual guide to secular success.

Be Fearless: 5 Principles for a Life of Breakthroughs and Purpose by Jean Case

            Businesswoman and philanthropist Jean Case teaches strategies for success in one’s life and career and where a giving mindset can create huge influence and impact.

Fourth And Long: The Fight For The Soul of College Football by John U. Bacon

One of my all-time favorite authors goes behind the scenes for one season of college football at Michigan, Ohio State, Penn State, and Northwestern to show the reader the successes and the potential future downfalls of college football and the business throughout it.

The Road Less Stupid by Keith J. Cunningham

The author uses his experience as a CEO and Chairman of the Board to dole out highly valuable business advice.

Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer

This classic from the mid-1990’s tells the story of a young college grad and his death in Alaska and what his final months, weeks, and days preceded his death.

The Cure: What If God Isn’t Who You Think He Is And Neither Are You? By John Lynch, Bruce McNicol, & Bill Thrall

Quite a thought-provoking look at the Christian faith, and our view of God, grace, faith, and how we live on a daily basis.

Your World-Class Assistant by Michael Hyatt

A very simple practical guide for finding and maximizing productivity through an executive assistant.

Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller Sr. by Ron Chernow

Another of Ron Chernow’s heavily researched biographies about the life and business style and practices of America’s richest man John D. Rockefeller Sr. and his influence on industries, our nation, the American university and college educational institutions, and philanthropic investment processes.

The Last Shot by Darcy Frey

An older book that tells the stories of a year in the life of high school basketball players doing all they can to escape the poverty of Coney Island and life’s struggles they encounter.

The Carpenter by Jon Gordon

Another annual re-read of another of my all-time favorite books that shares the greatest success strategies of all time for life and career – centered around the word C-A-R-E.

You Win In The Locker Room First by Jon Gordon & Mike Smith

Mike Smith shares his story of rising to become an NFL head coach with the Atlanta Falcons and then the subsequent steps that led to his downfall from initial winning success.

The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon

My annual re-read of Gordon’s bestseller that provides 10 rules to fuel your life, work, and team with positive energy.

Why CEO’s Fail by David L. Dotlich & Peter C. Cairo

A strong researched-based book on the 11 behaviors that can derail your climb to the top – and how to manage those behaviors

American Icon by Bryce G. Hoffman

Another of my favorite books of all time, this classic tells the behind-the-scenes story of how Alan Mullaly took over as CEO at The Ford Motor Company and turned it around from a $12 Billion deficit to a $3 Billion profit position in three tumultuous years. GREAT business leadership book!

Gridiron Genius by Michael Lombardi

This book subtitled “A Master Class In Winning Championships and Building Dynasties In The NFL” was written by the long-time NFL front office exec who had a front-row seat to Bill Walsh, Al Davis, and Bill Belichick who built dynasties with the 49ers,

The Talent Code by Daniel Coyle

What is the secret of talent? How do we unlock it? In this groundbreaking work, journalist and New York Times bestselling author Daniel Coyle provides parents, teachers, coaches, business people—and everyone else—with tools they can use to maximize potential in themselves and others.

Read To Lead: The Simple Habit That Expands Your Influence And Boosts Your Career by Jeff Brown and Jesse Wisnewski

It's a common habit shared by many successful people throughout history. It's responsible for unlocking limitless creativity and influence. It's known to reduce stress, improve decision-making skills, and make you a better leader. What is it? Reading. And it's the single best thing you can do to improve yourself professionally. This great book helps inspire, motivate and equip people to read – a vital tool for growth.

Think Like A Monk by Jay Shetty

Shetty grew up in a family where you could become one of three things—a doctor, a lawyer, or a failure. His family was convinced he had chosen option three: instead of attending his college graduation ceremony, he headed to India to become a monk, meditate every day for four to eight hours, and devote his life to helping others. After three years, one of his teachers told him that he would have more impact on the world if he left the monk’s path to share his experience and wisdom with others. 

The 12 Week Year: Get More Done In 12 Weeks Than Others Do In 12 Months by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington

Most organizations and individuals work in the context of annual goals and plans; a twelve-month execution cycle. Instead, The 12 Week Year avoids the pitfalls and low productivity of annualized thinking. This book redefines your "year" to be 12 weeks long.

The Little Book of Talent: 52 Tips For Improving Your Skills by Daniel Coyle

            The Little Book of Talent is an easy-to-use handbook of scientifically proven, field-tested methods to improve skills—your skills, your kids’ skills, your organization’s skills—in sports, music, art, math, and business. 

Tell To Win: Connect, Persuade, and Triumph with the Hidden Power of Story by Peter Guber

Peter Guber, whose executive and entrepreneurial accomplishments have made him a success in multiple industries, has long relied on purposeful story-telling to motivate, win over, shape, engage and sell.  Indeed, what began as a knack for telling stories as an entertainment industry executive has, through years of perspiration and inspiration, evolved into a set of principles that anyone can use to achieve their goals. In Tell to Win, Guber shows how to move beyond soulless PowerPoint slides, facts, and figures to create purposeful stories that can serve as powerful calls to action.

You’ve Got This: Unlocking the Hero Dad Within by Meg Meeker, M.D.

            An outstanding book for fathers regarding parenting and the traits and practices to become a Hero Dad, from this long-time pediatrician and well-known speaker.

Sooley by John Grisham

I very seldom read fiction, but I was intrigued to read Grisham’s latest book set in the world of international and intercollegiate basketball.

10 Simple Secrets of the World’s Greatest Business Communicators by Carmine Gallo

Practical guide where Gallo teaches presentation secrets from some of today’s greatest business presenters.

The Motive by Patrick Lencioni

New York Times best-selling author Patrick Lencioni has written a dozen books that focus on how leaders can build teams and lead organizations. In The Motive, he shifts his attention toward helping them understand the importance of why they’re leading in the first place. 

General Sam: A Biography of Lieutenant General Samuel Vaughn Wilson by Drew Prehmus

            A fascinating look inside the life and storied career in the Army, intelligence community, and ultimately the President of  Hampden-Sydney College.

Geeks & Geezers: How Era, Values, and Defining Moments Shape Leaders by Warren G. Bennis & Robert J. Thomas

Successful leaders young and old share numerous qualities. The authors, who bring considerable experience to the table, interviewed more than 40 leaders who they deem either "geeks" (aged 21-34) or "geezers" (aged 70-82) to evaluate the effect of an era on values and success. The two groups vary in terms of their ambitions, heroes, and family lives, but members of both sets share one common experience: all have "undergone at least one intense, transformational experience," which the authors call a "crucible."

The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York by Robert A. Caro

Caro won the Pulitzer Prize for this biography – an unbelievably thorough researched look at the life of Robert Moses who for forty years controlled much of the development of the New York City region starting out as the Parks and Recreation Director and eventually holding twelve separate offices at once, thereby wielding ego-fueled power.

Do You Talk Funny?: 7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better (and Funnier) Public Speaker by David Nihill

Nihill shows how the key principles of stand-up comedy can be applied to your speaking engagements and presentations to make you funnier, more interesting, and better looking.

Excellence Wins: A No-Nonsense Guide To Becoming The Best In A World Of Compromise by Horst Schulze with Dean Merrill

Horst Schulze knows how to win. In Excellence Wins, Schulze, in his absolute no-nonsense approach, shares the visionary and disruptive principles that have produced immense global successes over the course of his still-prolific fifty-year career. As the co-founder and former president of Ritz-Carlton Hotel Co., Schulze fearlessly led the company to unprecedented multi-billion-dollar growth, setting the business vision and people-focused standards that made the Ritz-Carlton brand globally elite.

Pathway to Purpose: Big Ideas for Fueling Irresistible Corporate Cultures by Jamey B. Lutz

Service excellence expert Jamey Lutz unveils time-tested strategies that have helped transform once good companies into truly exceptional ones. At the heart of every world-class culture is a team of inspired employees who are committed to accomplishing something far greater... together, than they could ever accomplish alone.

The Way of the Seal by Mark Divine

Want to be tough? Cool under fire? Able to sense danger before it’s too late? In The Way of the SEAL, Updated and Expanded Edition, retired Navy SEAL Commander Mark Divine reveals exercises, meditations, and focusing techniques to train your mind for mental toughness, emotional resilience, and uncanny intuition.

In A Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day: How To Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars by Mark Batterson

You will look back longingly on risks not taken, opportunities not seized, and dreams not pursued. Stop running away from what scares you most and start chasing the God-ordained opportunities that cross your path. In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day is inspired by one of the most obscure yet courageous acts recorded in Scripture, a blessed and audacious act that left no regrets: “Benaiah chased a lion down into a pit. Then, despite the snow and slippery ground, he caught the lion and killed it” 

The School of Greatness: A Real-World Guide to Living Bigger, Loving Deeper, and Leaving a Legacy by Lewis Howes

A framework for personal development, The School of Greatness gives you the tools, knowledge, and actionable resources you need to reach your potential. Howes anchors each chapter with a specific lesson he culled from his greatness "professors" and his own experiences to teach you how to create a vision, develop hustle, and use dedication, mindfulness, joy, and love to reach goals.

Chasing Daylight: Seize the Power of Every Moment by Erwin Raphael McManus

Are you willing to risk failure? Are you ready to get in the game? You may stumble, but you will find yourself falling forward, propelled toward the God-inspired adventure He intends you to live. Using the biblical characters of Saul and Jonathan during Israel's war with the Philistines, Chasing Daylight demonstrates the difference between living a life of purpose and adventure and living one of apathy and missed opportunity. 

Extreme Productivity: Boost Your Results, Reduce Your Hours by Robert C. Pozen

Discover the secrets to professional productivity and high performance. Extreme Productivity is for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their existing workload—facing myriad competing demands and multiple time-sensitive projects. Offering antidotes to a calendar full of boring meetings and a backlog of e-mails, Robert Pozen explains how to determine your highest priorities and match them with how you actually spend your time.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

In Think and Grow Rich, Hill draws on stories of Andrew Carnegie, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford, and other millionaires of his generation to illustrate his principles. This book will teach you the secrets that could bring you a fortune. It will show you not only what to do but how to do it. Once you learn and apply the simple, basic techniques revealed here, you will have mastered the secret of true and lasting success.

A Thousand Days in Tuscany by Marlena De Blasi

American chef and author of A Thousand Days in Venice moves to rural Tuscany, where she and her husband discover village secrets of food, life, and love.

Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World With OKR’s by John Doerr

Legendary venture capitalist John Doerr reveals how the goal-setting system of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) has helped tech giants from Intel to Google achieve explosive growth—and how it can help any organization thrive.

Five Stars: The Communication Secrets To Get From Good to Great by Carmine Gallo

Ideas don’t sell themselves. As the forces of globalization, automation, and artificial intelligence combine to disrupt every field, having a good idea isn’t good enough. Mastering the ancient art of persuasion is the key to standing out, getting ahead, and achieving greatness in the modern world. Communication is no longer a “soft” skill―it is the human edge that will make you unstoppable, irresistible, and irreplaceable―earning you that perfect rating, that fifth star.

This Is The Day by Tim Tebow

Beyond Tim Tebow's exploits as a Heisman-winning football player, he is widely known and respected for his exemplary character and personal excellence, which have made him a role model for millions. The New York Times best-selling sports star and media icon motivates readers to stop postponing dreams and start making them happen now because—this is the day.

Rhinoceros Success: The Secret to Charging Full Speed Toward Every Opportunity by Scott Alexander

Scott Alexander has discovered the REAL secret of success: becoming a rhinoceros. Read Rhinoceros Success and go rhino! That’s all there is between you and everything you’ve ever wanted to do or become in your life. CHARGE!

Bleachers by John Grisham

High school all-American Neely Crenshaw was probably the best quarterback ever to play for the legendary Messina Spartans. Fifteen years have gone by since those glory days, and Neely has come home to Messina to bury Coach Eddie Rake, the man who molded the Spartans into an unbeatable football dynasty.

The Office: The Untold Story of the Greatest Sitcom of the 2000’s by Andy Greene

In his brand-new oral history, The Office: The Untold Story of the Greatest Sitcom of the 2000s, Greene will take readers behind the scenes of their favorite moments and characters. Greene gives us the true inside story behind the entire show, from its origins on the BBC through its impressive nine-season run in America, with in-depth research and exclusive interviews.

Wild and Crazy Guys: How The Comedy Mavericks of the 80’s Changed Hollywood Forever by Nic De Semlyen

Wild and Crazy Guys opens in 1978 with Chevy Chase and Bill Murray taking bad-tempered swings at each other backstage at Saturday Night Live and closes 21 years later with the two doing a skit in the same venue, poking fun at each other, their illustrious careers, triumphs, and pratfalls. In between, Nick de Semlyen takes us on a trip through the tumultuous '80s.

Good Company by Arthur M. Blank

Arthur M. Blank believes that for good companies, purpose and profit can and should go hand in hand. And he should know. Together with co-founder Bernie Marcus, Blank built The Home Depot from an idea and a dream to a $50 billion-dollar company, the leading home improvement retailer in the world.

The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson

In The Splendid and the Vile, Erik Larson shows, in cinematic detail, how Winston Churchill taught the British people “the art of being fearless.” It is a story of political brinkmanship, but it’s also an intimate domestic drama, set against the backdrop of Churchill’s prime-ministerial country home, Chequers; his wartime retreat, Ditchley, where he and his entourage go when the moon is brightest and the bombing threat is highest; and of course 10 Downing Street in London.

Eat Smarter: Use The Power of Food To Reboot Your Metabolism, Upgrade Your Brain, and Transform Your Life by Shawn Stevenson

In Eat Smarter, nutritionist, bestselling author, and #1-ranked podcast host Shawn Stevenson breaks down the science of food with a 30-day program to help you lose weight, reboot your metabolism and hormones, and improve your brain function.

It’s The Manager by Jim Clifton & Jim Harter

While the world’s workplace has been going through historic change, the practice of management has been stuck in time for decades. The new workforce — especially younger generations — wants their work to have deep mission and purpose. They don’t want old-style command-and-control bosses. They want coaches who inspire them, communicate with them frequently and develop their strengths.

Coaching For Breakthrough Success: Proven Techniques for Making Impossible Dreams Possible by Jack Canfield and Dr. Peter Chee

Combining time-tested principles of exemplary coaches with the latest disruptive techniques used by the world’s top-performing leaders, this step-by-step playbook shows you how to nurture―in yourself and others―the three essential requirements of coaching excellence.

2020

The Man I Never Met by Adam Schefter

ESPN’s Adam Schefter shares a memoir of his life, his wife’s and her former husband killed in the World Trade Towers on 9/11. This book will give voice to all those who have chosen to keep living. It’s gratifying and beautiful. But also messy and hard. Like most families. Except that one day every year history comes roaring back. How do you embrace that? How do you honor that?

High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon Burchard

After extensive original research and a decade as the world’s leading high performance coach, Burchard teaches six deliberate habits that give you the edge. Anyone can practice these habits and, when they do, extraordinary things happen in their lives, relationships, and careers.

The Matheny Manifesto: A Young Manager’s Old-School Views On Success In Sports and Life by Mike Matheny with Jerry B. Jenkins

Kansas City Royals’ manager Mike Matheny's New York Times bestselling manifesto about what parents, coaches, and athletes get wrong about sports; what we can do better; and how sports can teach eight keys to success in sports and life.

Where Men Win Glory by Jon Krakauer

Pat Tillman walked away from a multimillion-dollar NFL contract to join the Army and became an icon of post-9/11 patriotism. When he was killed in Afghanistan two years later, a legend was born. But the real Pat Tillman was much more remarkable, and considerably more complicated than the public knew... A stunning account of a remarkable young man's heroic life and death, from the bestselling author.

I’m Fascinated by Sacrifice Flies by Tim Kurkjian

ESPN baseball commentator Tim Kurkjian shows readers how to love the game more than ever, with incredible insight and stories that are hilarious, heartbreaking, and revealing.

One Mission: How Leaders Build A Team of Teams by Chris Fussell

Too often, companies end up with teams stuck in their own silos, pursuing goals and metrics in isolation. Their traditional autocratic structures create stability, scalability, and predictability -- but in a world that demands rapid adaptation to a new reality, this traditional model simply doesn’t work. In Team of Teams, retired four-star General Stanley McChrystal and former Navy SEAL Chris Fussell made the case for a new organizational model.

Beautiful Outlaw: Experiencing The Playful, Disruptive, Extravagant Personality of Jesus by John Eldredge

Reading the Gospels without knowing the personality of Jesus is like watching television with the sound turned off. The result is a dry, two dimensional person doing strange, undecipherable things. But when we discover his true character-this man who made the wind, music and flying squirrels-suddenly all of the remarkable qualities of Jesus burst forth with color and brilliance like fireworks. Breaking Jesus out of the typical stereotypes, BEAUTIFUL OUTLAW welcomes readers into the rich emotional life of Christ showing how they can experience the actual personality of Jesus in their daily lives in ways that will deepen their faith.

Shut Up And Listen: Hard Business Truths That Will Help You Succeed by Tilman Fertita

Tilman Fertitta, also known as the Billion Dollar Buyer, started his hospitality empire thirty years ago with just one restaurant. So he knows the challenges that business owners face, as well as the common pitfalls that cause them to go under.  

Moneyball by Michael Lewis

Michael Lewis follows the low-budget Oakland A's, visionary general manager Billy Beane, and the strange brotherhood of amateur baseball theorists. They are all in search of new baseball knowledge―insights that will give the little guy who is willing to discard old wisdom the edge over big money.

The Best Team Wins: The New Science of High Performance by Adrian Gostick & Chester Elton

A massive shift is taking place in the business world. In today’s average company, up to eighty percent of employees’ days are now spent working in teams. And yet the teams most people find themselves in are nowhere near as effective as they could be. They’re often divided by tensions, if not outright dissension, and dysfunctional teams drain employees’ energy, enthusiasm, and creativity. Now Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton share the proven ways managers can build cohesive, productive teams, despite the distractions and challenges every business is facing.

Have Faith Like Noah by Sierra Jones

Have Faith Like Noah is a book that is going to encourage and challenge you. It is going to open your eyes in a different way than what you may have already heard, read, or listened to the story of Noah.

The Extra 2%: How Wall Street Strategies Took a Major League Baseball Team from Worst to First by Jonah Keri

In The Extra 2%, financial journalist and sportswriter Jonah Keri chronicles the remarkable story of one team’s Cinderella journey from divisional doormat to World Series contender. When former Goldman Sachs colleagues Stuart Sternberg and Matthew Silverman assumed control of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays in 2005, it looked as if they were buying the baseball equivalent of a penny stock. But the incoming regime came armed with a master plan: to leverage their skill at trading, valuation, and management to build a model twenty-first-century franchise that could compete with their bigger, stronger, richer rivals—and prevail.

Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink

Leadership Strategy and Tactics explains how to take leadership theory, quickly translate that theory into applicable strategy, and then put leadership into action at a tactical level. This book is the solution that leaders at every level need―not just to understand the leadership game, but also how to play the leadership game, and win it.

Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can  Change Your Life…And Maybe The World by Admiral William H. McRaven (Ret.)

On May 17, 2014, Admiral William H. McRaven addressed the graduating class of the University of Texas at Austin on their Commencement day. Admiral McRaven's original speech went viral with over 10 million views. Building on the core tenets laid out in his speech, this timeless book provides simple wisdom, practical advice, and words of encouragement that will inspire readers to achieve more, even in life's darkest moments.

The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned From 15 Years as CEO of The Walt Disney Company by Robert Iger

In The Ride of a Lifetime, Robert Iger shares the lessons he learned while running Disney and leading its 220,000-plus employees, and he explores the principles that are necessary for true leadership.

The Perfect Pass: American Genius and the Reinvention of Football by S.C. Gwynne

S.C. Gwynne explores Hal Mumme’s leading role in changing football from a run-dominated sport to a pass-dominated one, the game that tens of millions of Americans now watch every fall weekend. Whether you’re a casual or ravenous football fan, this is “a rousing tale of innovation”, and “Gwynne’s book ably relates the story of that innovation and the successes of the man who devised it”.

Produced By Faith by Devon Franklin

Straight from Hollywood comes a dynamic business model for building a thriving career without compromising your faith. DeVon Franklin, vice president of production for Columbia Pictures, shares how being bold about his Christian faith while being driven and ambitious has actually worked in his favor to help him excel in a high-profile, fast-paced, competitive industry.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear

No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving--every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.

The Serving Mindset: Stop Selling and Grow Your Business by Farnoosh Brock

Targeted to business owners and entrepreneurs who are very good at what they do but feel guilt and shame around selling and sales and therefore limit their own success and overall possibilities, The Serving Mindset: Stop Selling and Grow Your Business positions selling as serving and takes readers through the process of why and how to acquire this “serving mindset” and put it into practice.

Seal of Honor: Operation Red Wings and the Life of Lt. Michael P. Murphy, USN by Gary Williams

A look at the life of Lt. Michael Patrick Murphy, a Navy SEAL, earned the Medal of Honor on 28 June 2005 for his bravery during a fierce fight with the Taliban in the remote mountains of eastern Afghanistan. The first to receive the nation's highest military honor for service in Afghanistan, Lt. Murphy was also the first naval officer to earn the medal since the Vietnam War, and the first SEAL to be honored posthumously. 

Die Empty: Unleash Your Best Work Every Day by Todd Henry

Die Empty is a tool for people who aren't willing to put off their most important work for another day. Todd Henry explains the forces that lead to stagnation and introduces practices that will keep you on a true and steady course.

One Click: Jeff Bezos and The Rise of Amazon.com by Richard L. Brandt

Why has Amazon been so successful? Much of it has to do with Jeff Bezos, the founder and CEO, whose unique combination of character traits and business strategy has driven Amazon to the top of the online retail world. Richard Brandt charts Bezos’s rise from computer nerd to world-changing entrepreneur.

Never Settle: Sports, Family, And The American Soul by Marty Smith

ESPN’s homespun reporter shares his autobiographical story from humble beginnings through a strong work ethic to success in sports broadcasting.

The Four: The Hidden DNA of Amazon, Apple, Facebook, and Google by Scott Galloway

For all that’s been written about the Four over the last two decades, no one has captured their power and staggering success as insightfully as Scott Galloway. Instead of buying the myths these compa­nies broadcast, Galloway asks fundamental questions. How did the Four infiltrate our lives so completely that they’re almost impossible to avoid (or boycott)? Why does the stock market forgive them for sins that would destroy other firms? And as they race to become the world’s first trillion-dollar company, can anyone chal­lenge them?

The Boys In The Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown

This incredible book tells us equally incredible life stories behind this amazing quest for international success in rowing. Nine young men from humble beginnings in the Depression and post-Depression era. A moving book!

Every Day Is A Bonus by Kenn Kington

This autobiographical story from one of my dear friends and one of America’s top clean comedians is a powerful story that will help you refocus on your life and appreciate the preciousness of each day.

The Accidental Creative: How To Be Brilliant At A Moment’s Notice by Todd Henry

The book teaches effective practices that support your creative process and is your guide to staying fresh and doing your best work each day.

Real Artists Don’t Starve: Timeless Strategies for Thriving in the New Creative Age by Jeff Goins

Many of history’s most creative minds – Michelangelo to Shakespeare to Steve Jobs – succeeded NOT because they succumbed to the myth of the starving artist but precisely because they didn’t.

Steal Like An Artist: 10 Things Nobody Told You About Being Creative by Austin Kleon

An inspiring guide to creativity in the digital age, and how to discover your artistic side and build a more creative life.

Excellent Sheep: The Miseducation of The American Elite by William Deresiewicz

As a Yale professor Deresiewicz saw some of the nation’s brightest minds unable to think critically and creatively and to find a sense of purpose. He argues that elite colleges are turning out conformists without a compass. 

The On-Time On-Target Manager by Ken Blanchard & Steve Gottry

A story about a “last minute manager” whose career is waylaid by his own procrastination and a turnaround as a result of practical strategies that improve his performance.

Range: Why Generalists Triumph In A Specialized World by David Epstein

Epstein’s research on the world’s top performers, from professional athletes to Nobel laureates shows that early specialization is actually the exception and not the rule – contrary to many “experts’” thoughts on specialization.

The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle

Where does great culture come from? How do you build and sustain it in your  group or strengthen a culture that needs fixing?

Born To Run: A Hidden Tribe, Superathletes, and the Greatest Race the World Has Never Seen by Christopher McDougall

Phenomenal book about the Tarahumara Indians in Mexico’s Copper Canyon who run hundreds of miles a day without rest or injury, an author/runner that is often-injured and a historic ultramarathon race pitting America’s great ultra-marathoners and the Tarahumara.

Loonshots by Safi Bahcall

How do crazy ideas lead to winning wars, curing diseases, and transforming entire industries – while avoiding challenges that arise from organizational hierarchy and career path politics? Bahcall takes readers through a clear path to idea greatness.

Attitude: Develop A Winning Mindset On And Off The Court by Jay Wright with Michael Sheridan and Mark Dagostino

National championship coach Jay Wright from Villanova uses the game of basketball, his leadership, and his teams to teach life, leadership, and career lessons.

The Proximity Principle by Ken Coleman

Podcast host and celebrity talent for Dave Ramsey’s organization, Coleman uses his own real-life examples for how proximity allows a person to find opportunities in their pursuit of dreams and career goals.

Don’t Give Up, Don’t Give In: Lessons From An Extraordinary Life by Louis Zamperini and David Rensin

Zamperini, whose life story was told through the movie “Unbroken” shares life lessons learned along his journey through an extraordinary life as an Olympic runner, prisoner of war, and businessman and speaker.

Eat & Run: My Unlikely Journey to Ultramarathon Greatness by Scott Jurek

One of the greatest, if not greatest, ultramarathoners Scott Jurek shares his life from growing up in the Minnesota wilderness to becoming a world record setting ultramarathon runner while fueled by his vegan diet. Jurek includes high-powered vegan recipes throughout the book.

Playing For More – Trust Beyond What You Can See by Case Keenum with Andrew Perloff

NFL Quarterback Case Keenum’s autobiography, a picture of his faith in football and life.

Way of the Warrior Kid by Jocko Willink

Author and former Navy SEAL, Willink uses this children’s book to illustrate how a youngster (or oldster) can succeed through lessons from the SEALS. Outstanding for older elementary school readers or early middle schoolers.

A Curious Mind: The SECRET to a BIGGER LIFE by Brian Grazer and Charles Fishman

Grazer, a famed Hollywood producer, shows his real-life experiences that his curiosity provided in his life and professional career.

The Coddling Of The American Mind: How Good Intentions And Bad Ideas Are Setting Up A Generation For Failure by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

A phenomenal book that clearly lays out the Four Great Untruths and how parents and educators have greatly impacted this generation and since 2013 created the instability that our nation faces.

The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick Lencioni

         Lencioni shows us how, by focusing on four specific principles, a leader or leadership team can guide a company or organization to more efficient and effective productivity.

Death By Meeting by Patrick Lencioni

Lencioni’s classic book about the negative view of meetings, the makeup of more effective meetings, and how actually holding more meetings can be most beneficial for organizations and companies.

Work Rules by Laszlo Bock

Google’s VP of People reveals the processes and qualities that have helped create their culture and cultural success and the factors behind their being at the top of most “best places to work” list.

The Truth About Employee Engagement by Patrick Lencioni

         This book answers the question, “How can a leader get the most productive success out of their teams, and help them enjoy the process?”

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

         Lencioni’s most famous book – a great look at the essential leadership needs of any organization to create a cohesive leadership team!

The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni

The start of my re-reading Lencioni’s books – this is the best book on the market for how a company or organization creates organizational health and how it is the most critical factor in their success.

Holocracy: The New Management System for a Rapidly Changing World by Brian J. Robertson

A fascinating look at this new type of management system being implemented by several large companies around the country and globe, that uses an organizational  structure-less method of fulfilling daily operations and governance.

The Southwest Airlines Way: Using the Power of Relationships to Achieve High Performance by Jody Hoffer Gittell

A detailed look at Southwest’s 10 organizational practices that they use to build relationships between leadership, frontline employees, customers, unions, and suppliers - and how those strong relationships lead to industry-leading performance and profitability. 

Gridiron Genius by Michael Lombardi (4th reading)

This book is an incredible business book written through the lens of three of the great National Football League dynasties. Former front office exec Michael Lombardi uses his time with Bill Walsh’s San Francisco 49ers, Al Davis’ Oakland Raiders, and Bill Belichick’s New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns to teach corporate culture and organizational development and the role of a key leader to set the tone for sustained excellence over years. 

Nuts! Southwest Airlines’ Crazy Recipe For Business and Personal Success by Kevin and Jackie Freiberg

An incredible inside behind-the-scenes look at the birth, growth, culture and competitive strategy and tactics of the top airline in the industry. 

Triumph of the City by Edward Glaeser

The author gives us a fascinating research based book on how cities around the world formed, how they were designed and laid out, what led to their growth and prosperity (or demise) and what the future holds.

My Dad Yogi by Dale Berra

A fun book that looks at the life of Hall of Fame baseball player and manager Yogi Berra through his  son’s  eyes, and how Yogi dealt with the adversity in his son’s life.

PEAK: How Great Companies Get Their Mojo From Maslow by Chip Conley

Conley shares how his hospitality company battled through the Dot-com burst, the SARS epidemic, and the 9/11 attacks by focusing on Abraham’s Maslow’s “Hierarchy of Needs” and moving his employees, customers, and investors from meeting their base physiological needs all the way up to their transformation self-actualization needs.

Never Lose A Customer Again by Joey Coleman

Coleman shows how to develop deep customer loyalty by focusing on the 100 days after a customer’s purchase of your good or service. This dramatically improves retention and customer loyalty. 

That Will Never Work by Marc Randolph

NETFLIX co-founder Marc Randolph shares the story behind the birth and growth of NEXTFLIX – from an idea to developing it into a company and finally the growth into the giant that it has become. 

Leading The Life You Want: Skills For Integrating Work and Life by Stewart D. Friedman

Friedman looks at the problem of Work/Life Balance and into the four actual components of one’s life: home or family; work or school; community or society; and the private realm of body, mind and spirit.

The Power of Wow: How to Electrify Your Work and Your Life by Putting Service First by Mark Dagostino and the Employees of Zappos

An outstanding inside look at Zappos’ incredible culture and the impact it has on the company and the lives of the employees and customers. 

Wisdom @ Work: The Making of a Modern Elder by Chip Conley

This outstanding book shows the value of middle-aged people in their ability to serve as an “elder” to younger executives or leaders in companies and organizations. It provides a four-step path towards serving as an elder, and Conley traces his steps from selling his own company to serve as an elder for the founders of Airbnb. 

Overtime: Jim Harbaugh and the Michigan Wolverines at the Crossroads of College Football by John U. Bacon

This is the second book I read from Bacon, and his writing is truly enjoyable to read, while informative through his journalistic research and subject knowledge. This was a great look inside college football and one of its top programs.

Game Changers: What Leaders, Innovators, and Mavericks Do to Win at Life by Dave Asprey

The founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and a world class self-improvement biohacker, he interviewed 450 highly successful people and coupled his writing with leading research in the categories of Smarter (brain research), Faster (physical), and Happier (emotional) improvement.

The Actor’s Life: A Survival Guide by Jenna Fischer

Part memoir and part mentor’s guide for aspiring actors – Jenna Fischer, best-known as “Pam” on “The Office” gives the reader a fascinating look behind the scenes of the entertainment industry, but also gives practical advice for interviews (auditions) and presentations (acting).

What I Talk About When I Talk About Running by Haruki Murakami

This memoir from one of the world’s great authors is partly his running diary and partly an intimate glimpse into one of his life’s passions – all in his own beautiful writing style. I’ve never read anything like it!

The Power of a Positive Team by Jon Gordon

One of my all-time favorite authors delivers again, as Jon Gordon brings the reader an outstanding look at the synergistic power that comes from a positive work or team environment, identifying positive characteristics of the best companies and teams, along with ways that your company or team can grow itself into a powerfully positive producer!

My Father’s Business…The Small Town Values That Built DOLLAR GENERAL Into A Billion Dollar Company by Cal Turner, Jr.

Cal Turner Jr. shares the story of his father Cal Sr. starting DOLLAR GENERAL, and the path that it took to grow from a small town general store into a large billion-dollar corporation.

Believe It by Nick Foles with Joshua Cooley

An outstanding autobiography that is fun to read, as it tracks the life and career path of Nick Foles, from his high school days to Super Bowl MVP hero for the Philadelphia Eagles.

What You Do Is Who You Are…How To Create Your Business Culture by Ben Horowitz

This is one of the best books I’ve ever read on culture! The title says it all – your company or organization’s behaviors and actions are REALLY your culture! Horowitz helps identify cultural characteristics and provides fixes and strengths.

The Power of Moments by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

Another powerful book from the brothers Heath – this one shows us how experiences can jolt us, elevate us, and change us, and how we can learn to create powerful moments and experiences in our lives and in our work.

The Man Watching by Tim Crothers

In the 38 NCAA Women’s Soccer Championships, the University of North Carolina has won 21 titles and been the runners-up in five. This book takes us inside Anson Dorrance’s program and shows his leadership and coaching methods.

2019

When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi

At the age of thirty-six, on the verge of completing a decade’s worth of training as a neurosurgeon, Paul Kalanithi was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer. This autobiography is a poignant look at his life and his final months, weeks, and days.

The Soul of a Team by Tony Dungy and Nathan Whitaker

This fable from Tony Dungy teaches the championship concepts behind the SOUL of a great dynastic team.

How The Best Leaders Lead by Brian Tracy

Another solid equipping book from Brian Tracy, giving us insight on leadership excellence.

Mamba Mentality: How I Play by Kobe Bryant

This coffee table book combines awesome photographs from Andrew D. Bernstein and Bryant’s own writings about what made him one of the greatest players in NBA history, and now the winner of an Oscar, winning an Academy Award for his “Dear Basketball” short film. Nicknamed the “Black Mamba” he shares even the smallest of details behind his mentality (Mamba Mentality) behind his enormous success – even taking tap dancing lessons in the off-season to strengthen his ankles. A great read!

Covert Cows and Chick Fil A by Steve Robinson

The former CFA Chief Marketing Officer traces the rise of Chick Fil A with insightful stories about the development of their Purpose statement, branding growth, business success, and  the ideas behind “My Pleasure” and the beloved Cows. 

The Fish That Ate The Whale – The Life and Times of America’s Banana King by Rich Cohen

When we eat a banana today, we think nothing of it. But in the late 1890’s very few Americans knew what one was…until Samuel Zemurray, a Russian immigrant raised in Alabama began his own banana import business in New Orleans that would eventually eat its biggest competitor United Fruit Company, as well as lead revolutions in Central American countries. Part historical novel, coupled with leadership and business lessons from Zemurray, whom I’d never heard of until the book was recommended to me!

Saban: The Making of a Coach by Monte Burke

An introspective look in the life and work of Nick Saban, from his birth and growing up in a West Virginia coal mining town, to his playing career in high school and college, and along his coaching career path that has made him one of the most successful college football coaches of all time.

Ground Rules For Winners by Joe Torre and Henry Dreher

In the midst of his World Series championships as the leader of the New York Yankees, in the late 1990’s, Torre penned his leadership ideas that formed his success. Insightful in his work with professional athletes and their egos, as well as professional sports’ most demanding owners.

Belichick by Ian O’Connor

This Biography of Bill Belichick traces his life from birth in the home of a college football assistant coach, legendary for his scouting system, through his athletic career at the scholastic and intercollegiate levels, providing his foundation for his own coaching career culminating in a record six Super Bowl victories at the helm of the New England Patriots.

Born Standing Up by Steve Martin

Comedian, actor, and musician Steve Martin pens his autobiography and takes the reader through his life and progression from his start at Disneyland as just a boy, to his worldwide fame as a stage performer and comedian, to acting in movies and on Saturday Night Live. A fascinating behind-the-scenes look at his life and the entertainment industry.

American Icon by Bryce G. Hoffman (2nd reading)

Alan Mullaly was hired by Ford to take the reins as CEO, after he helped lead Boeing through one of their darkest business eras. Mullaly took over with Ford in the midst of a $12 Billion deficit, and under his leadership Ford experienced one of the greatest business comebacks of all time. Hoffman covered the automobile industry for the Detroit News and used unlimited access to tell this phenomenal success story. 

Gridiron Genius by Michael Lombardi (3rd reading)

This book is an incredible business book written through the lens of three of the great National Football League dynasties. Former front office exec Michael Lombardi uses his time with Bill Walsh’s San Francisco 49ers, Al Davis’ Oakland Raiders, and Bill Belichick’s New England Patriots and Cleveland Browns to teach corporate culture and organizational development and the role of a key leader to set the tone for sustained excellence over years.

Tools of the Titans – The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World Class Performers by Timothy Ferriss 

This voluminous work from Ferriss is a huge mixed-bag of lessons from many of the guests that appeared on Ferriss’ worldly popular podcast. Laid out in a “Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise” format, each section offers invaluable insight into the tactics, routines, and habits of the ultra-successful.

The Road Back To You by Ian Morgan Cron

Cron does a wonderful job of educating us on the genesis of the Enneagram and then spends a chapter for each of the nine personality types in great detail, showing strengths and applications, as well as weaknesses and pitfalls

Bad Blood by John Carreyrou

This Pulitzer Prize-winning author delivers a fascinating investigative look at one of America’s greatest corporate frauds – Theranos and its founder Elizabeth Holmes. Carreyrou takes you deep behind the scenes to show the reader the sudden rise and precipitous fall of this Silicon Valley start-up that destroyed lives with minimal concern.

Unleashing Innovation by Nancy Tennant Snyder & Deborah L. Duarte

At the start of the 21st century, Whirpool under the leadership of CEO Dave Whitwam made the strategic decision to embed innovation throughout their company, and that resulted in Whirpool transforming an industry. The book uses real life examples in laying out all aspects of embedding innovation throughout your company.

The Orange Revolution by Adrian Robert Gostick

This is a practical guide to building high-performance teams, and shows how “one great team can transform an entire organization.” A book that everyone in business needs to read and study to maximize the different teams in your company.

The Magic of Thinking Big by David Joseph Schwartz

This 60-year old book gives secrets of success in life and business, and although the illustrations are six decades old, this quick read gives you thought provoking ideas to apply to your life and career.

Leading by Alex Ferguson with Michael Moritz

The winningest soccer coach ever, with 27 years at the helm of Manchester United, shares the tools to his success and he and Moritz draw out lessons for business and life.

Double Blessing by Mark Batterson

Another life-impacting book from one of my favorite authors, who shows us how to inventory our God-given blessings and then flip them to bless others.

What Matters Now by Gary Hamel

Great book for leaders in how to build your organization in the midst of relentless change, ferocious competition, and unstoppable innovation.

Smarter Faster Better by Charles Duhigg

A must-read for anyone in leadership, or who wants to be more productive in their life and business. Duhigg mixes solid research with great stories to go deeper on motivation, teams, focus, goal setting, managing others, decision making, innovation, and absorbing data.

The Best Team Money Can Buy by Molly Knight

This is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the Los Angeles Dodgers after the sale of their ball club in 2012 and into 2015. A great look at organizational development and the innerworkings of a major league franchise.

Wherever I Wind Up by R.A. Dickey

This autobiography from former major league pitcher R.A. Dickey is a heartfelt, open and honest, look at his life from childhood to college stardom to pro baseball where he struggled from being a journeyman to becoming a star pitcher for the New York Mets. A great story!

Playing For Pizza by John Grisham 

This little-known fictional Grisham book is a fun summer read about a former NFL backup quarterback that gets his last shot for the Parma Panthers in Italy.

John Recruit or Die by Chris Resto, Ian Ybarra, & Ramit Sethi

A nice look at how companies can do a better job in recruiting new talent, and how newer or smaller companies can compete against the “big guys” for the best and brightest talent.

Imagine It Forward by Beth Comstock

Former GE and NBC executive uses her life story and real-life experiences to demonstrate how to confront change, and become a changemaker. Her line “The pace of change in our world will never be slower than it is right now” is alarmingly true!

Developing The Leader Within You 2.0 by John Maxwell

Maxwell took one of his classic books and updated it to further develop and strengthen today’s leaders through key leadership principles and needs.

Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt

Hyatt shows us his Free to  Focus method in maximizing our productivity with a more lifestyle that has a stronger wholeness to it. For a healthy, happier, more productive you – this book helps you find your way!

More Than A Believer by Taylor Edge

A great guide to a disciplined and disciple’s life. Easy to read with depth to help encourage and grow veterans in their faith.

Dream Teams by Shane Snow

Snow looks at a number of “teams” in sports, music, business, and other fields from current day and decades or centuries past – looking at how diverse thought among the teams led to great success, and how success didn’t find teams that lacked diverse thought. Fascinating…from Soviet hockey to Wu Tang Clan.

Trillion Dollar Coach by Eric Schmidt, Jonathan Rosenberg, & Alan Eagle

An incredible look into the life and leadership coach Bill Campbell, whose influence as an executive coach impacted the lives and careers of Steve Jobs, Larry Page, Eric Schmidt, and other executives from some of the world’s largest companies.

Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin

One of America’s great historical writers teaches us about the leadership and life of Abraham Lincoln and his unusual hand-picked cabinet that he led through the Civil War and Emancipation. A fascinating book full of incredible leadership lessons!

Extraordinary Influence by Dr. Tim Irwin

A fascinating look at brain science and the powerful impact and influence that affirmation can have. This wonderful combination of scientific research coupled with real life application will help everyone in their roles within relationships, marriages, families, companies, and teams.

Taking People With You by David Novak

The former CEO of Yum! Brands uses this book to share the content of the leadership class that he led for leaders and rising leaders within his companies. Great leadership lessons!

The Captain: The Journey of Derek Jeter by Ian O’Connor

For 19 seasons, Derek Jeter was the cornerstone leader of the New York Yankees, handling himself and his play in an old-school style that influenced his teammates and baseball alike.

The Education of an Accidental CEO by David Novak with John Boswell

The former CEO of YUM brands takes us from growing up in trailer parks around the country to the C-Suite of some of America’s greatest brands, while impacting the corporate world with a phenomenal recognition plan of great impact with his staff 

The Wright Brothers by David McCullough

McCullough is acknowledged as one of our best historical biographers, and he provides an incredible and fascinating look at the two brothers from Ohio that changed world history through their brilliant knowledge and daring persistence to their incredible flying machine.

Focal Point by Brian Tracy

The secret of high achievers is that they understand their “focal point” – and Brian Tracy gives his reader a simple easy-to-use plan to achieve great results in each area of their life.

Legacy by James Kerr

One of the most incredible books on culture that I’ve ever read! Kerr was embedded with one of the greatest teams of all time, and shares how their culture has led to their incredible success, and how their success has fueled their culture.

Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson

I’d been told that this was the very best biography of Steve Jobs, and Isaacson didn’t disappoint, as he painted a detailed picture of a hugely successful innovator and leader with an extremely complex personality.

Sum It Up by Pat Summitt with Sally Jenkins

The memoir of the late great Pat Summitt, one of the greatest teachers and coaches in any sport, at any level. I was privileged to know her and be at practices and games to see her greatness.

Eat That Frog! By Brian Tracy

One of America’s top business teachers and speakers provides 21 great ways to stop procrastination. Don’t put off reading this one!!

Fred 2.0 by Mark Sanborn

This is the sequel to Sanborn’s book “The Fred Factor” and it provides applicable examples of real-life success found through lessons learned in the first book.

Ask More by Frank Sesno

This shows us that our potential success can be greatly impacted by the power of questions.

The Legends Club by John Feinstein

Written by one of America’s great storytellers, this book looks at three distinctly different leaders, college basketball coaches, who created great highly successful programs all within 20 miles of each other. A fascinating look at over a decade of dueling. 

The Power of Positive Leadership by Jon Gordon

Another great book from one of my favorite authors, this looks at real life examples of positive leadership and its impactful influence on the teams, organizations, and businesses, and provides practical methods of leadership development.

More Than A Hobby by David Green

Giving It All Away by David Green

These two outstanding books trace the start of retail giant Hobby Lobby from its humble beginnings as a $900 start up making picture frames in a garage, and the second book is how the Green family’s business success has led to a strategy of life-changing giving

The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss

A great book to evaluate systems, processes, and efficiencies in your life and career, while providing a broad potential vision for one’s life and career.

Why The Best Are The Best by Kevin Eastman

A championship coach and leader shares lists and ideas that have fueled elite performers’ success, including 25 powerful words that impact, inspire, and define champions

Wealthy Speaker 2.0 by Jane Atkinson

One of the world’s top speaking coaches provides a roadmap to success in this field

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie 

This classic book has provided high-performers, for decades, the skills to be successful in relating to others in work and in life.

2018

Benjamin Franklin: An American Life by Walter Isaacson

Higher Waiting by Tyler Perry

The Wisdom of Teams by Jon R. Katzenbach & Douglas K. Smith

Gridiron Genius by Michael Lombardi

Rebel Talent by Francesca Gino

Sprinkles by Chip R. Bell

Irresistible by Andy Stanley

A Wrestling Life – Inspiring Stories From Dan Gable by Dan Gable

A Father First by Dwayne Wade

One Minute Manager Builds High Performing Teams by Ken Blanchard, 

    Eunice Parisi-Carew and Donald Carew

Drive For Five by Christopher Price

What Made Maddy Run by Kate Fagan

Originals by Adam Grant

High Output Management by Andrew Grove

Shaken by Tim Tebow & A.J. Gregory

Through My Eyes by Tim Tebow & Nathan Whitaker

The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker

The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

Head Ball Coach by Steve Spurrier & Buddy Martin

Extreme You by Sarah Robb O’Hagan

The Secret by Ken Blanchard

The Storyteller’s Secret by Carmine Gallo

7 Men and The Secret of Their Greatness by Eric Metaxas

The Golden Rules by Bob Bowman & Charles Butler

Chop Wood Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf

Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi

The Five Temptations of a CEO by Patrick Lencioni

Platform: How To Get Noticed In A Noisy World by Michael S. Hyatt

Finding Ultra by Rich Roll

The Go Giver by Bob Burg

How Winning Works by Robin Benincasa

Theodore Roosevelt A Strenuous Life by Kathleen Dalton

Purple Cow by Seth Godin

The One Minute Manager Meets The Monkey by Ken Blanchard, Hal Burrows, 

   William Oncken

What Makes A Leader Great by Russ Crosson

Getting To Us: How Great Coaches Make Great Teams by Seth Davis

Great By Choice by Jim Collins

50 Inventions That Shaped The Modern Economy by Tim Harford

Chipper Jones Ballplayer by Chipper Jones & Carroll Rogers Walton

Shoe Dog by Phil Knight

The Business Card by Dr. Steve O. Steff & Scott Gajewsky

Leading With A Noble Purpose by Lisa Earl McLeod

Captains Class by Sam Walker

Teammate by David Ross & Don Yaeger

Fight by Craig Groeschel

Boss Talk by The Editors of the Wall Street Journal

The Warrior Within by Pat Williams

Traction by Gino Wickman

The Advantage by Patrick Lencioni

The Cub’s Way by Tom Verducci

Unscripted by Ernie Johnson Jr.

No Plan B by Mark Kiszla

The Last Arrow by Erwin McManus

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin

For The Glory by Duncan Hamilton

The Lombardi Rules by Vince Lombardi Jr.

Overrated by Eugene Cho

Bo’s Lasting Lessons On Leadership by Bo Schembechler & John U. Bacon

2017

Eat To Live by Dr. Joel Fuhrman

Crazy Love by Francis Chan

Scaling Up Excellence by Hayagreeva Rao & Robert I. Sutton

Death By Meeting by Patrick Lencioni

Sticky Teams by Larry Osborne

The Traveler’s Gift by Andy Andrews

The Leadership Game by Tom Mullins

Winning Every Day by Lou Holtz

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin

Sleep Smarter by Shawn Stevenson

The Change Monster by Jeanie Daniel Duck

Fit For Life by Harvey Diamond

Relentless by Tim S. Grover

Living With A Seal by Jessie Itzler

Above The Line by 

Urban Meyer & Wayne R. Coffey

The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni

American Icon by Bryce G. Hoffman

Superbosses by Sydney Finkelstein

Whisper by Mark Batterson

The Search For God and Guinness by Stephen Mansfield

The Way of the Shark by Gerg Norman

The $6000 Egg by Todd & Deb Duncan

Reagan’s Journey by Margot Morrell

Radical Candor by Kim Scott

The Soul of Service by Leonard Berry

Players First by John Calipari & Michael Sokolove

The Yankee Years by Joe Torre & Tom  Verducci

Greatness, The 16 Characteristics of True Champions by Don Yeager

Remarkable! Maximizing Results Through Value Creation By Dr. Randy Ross  

  & David Salyers

The Dark Side of the Game by TJ Green

Play The Man by Mark Batterson

More Than A Game by Brian Billick

Working In Sync by Whit Mitchell

You Herd Me by Colin Cowherd

Man In The Mirror by Patrick Morley

Fun Is Good by Mike Veeck

Who’s Holding Your Ladder? by Samuel R. Chand

Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

Damn Few by Rorke Denver & Ellis Henican

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Training Camp by Jon Gordon

Soup by Jon Gordon

It’s Your Ship by D. Michael Abrashoff

Lead…For God’s Sake by Todd Gongwer

The Fred Factor by Mark Sanborn

The Essential Wooden by John Wooden & Steve Jamison

Flight Plan by Brian Tracy

One on One: Behind The Scenes with the Greats in the Game by 

       Jon Feinstein & David de Vries 

2016

Gospel of Freedom by Jonathan Rieder

Under Our Skin by Benjamin Watson & Ken Peterson

Dare To Serve by Cheryl Bachelder

People Over Profit by Dale Partridge

Start by Jon Acuff

More Than A Season: Building A Championship Culture by Dayton Moore, 

       Matt Fulks, Alex Gordon

Double Play by Ben Zobrist, Julianna Zobrist, Mike Yorkey

Help The Helper by Kevin Pritchard & John Eliot

How Successful People Think by John C. Maxwell

The Promise of a Pencil by Adam Braun

Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh

Beyond Basketball by Mike Krzyzewski & Jamie K. Spatola

The Gold Standard: Building A World Class Team by Mike Krzyzewski

Coming Back Stronger: Unleashing The Hidden Power of Adversity by 

Drew Brees

Decide Your Destination by Chad Merrill

Customer Loyalty Guaranteed by Chip R. Bell

Hard Hat by Jon Gordon

Next Generation Leader by Andy Stanley

A Standup Comic Sits Down With Jesus by Rich Praytor

Motivation to Excellence by Elliott Johnson

Chase The Lion by Mark Batterson

The Game of Work by Charles A. Conradt

3 Signs of a Miserable Job by Patrick Lencioni

Bounce Back by John Calipari

Service Magic by Chip R. Bell

Magnetic Service by Chip R. Bell

Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard & Sheldon Bowles

Customer Love by Chip R. Bell

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Leif Babin

Tribes by Seth Godin

All In – What It Takes To Be The Best by Gene Chizik & David Thomas

Teammates Matter by Alan Williams

Creating Magic by Lee Cockerell

The Seed by Jon Gordon

Touchdown Alexander by Shaun Alexander & Cecil Murphey

Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute

The Closer, My Story by Mariano Rivera & Wayne Coffey

Swim With The Sharks Without Getting Eaten Alive by Harvey B. Mackay

Death By Meeting by Patrick Lencioni

Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Francona by Terry Francona & Dan Shaughnessy

The Carpenter by Jon Gordon

EntreLeadership by Dave Ramsey

Wisdom Walks by Dan Britton & Jimmy Page

Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull & Amy Wallace

Outstanding: 47 Ways To Make Your OrganizationExceptional by 

   John G. Miller 

A Passion To Lead by Jim Calhoun & Richard Ernsberger Jr.

The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive by Patrick Lencioni

Dream Team by Jack McCallum

Let Me Tell You A Story by John Feinstein & Red Auerbach

Aspire Higher by Avery Johnson & Roy S. Johnson

The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth by John C. Maxwell

You Win In The Locker Room First by Jon Gordon & Mike Smith